2015 Lincoln MKT

NEW FOR 2015:

- MKT is unchanged.

If there’s one thing to say about Lincoln’s flagship MKT crossover, it’s that there’s pretty much nothing else like it on the road. Lower and longer than your average German or Japanese three-row crossover, it’s also radically different in the visuals department with its split bow grille and thin tail lamps. Buy one of these and you won’t lose it in a parking lot.

The MKT isn’t a giant seller for Lincoln despite the popularity of crossovers. That said, it does deliver on the promise of quality and luxury. Its cabin is serene and well-insulated, and it offers seating for six or seven, depending on whether an air-conditioned cooler box is fitted in the centre of the second row. If there’s anything to gripe about, it’s likely the headroom in the third row; the sloping roofline eats away at it. The redesigned Navigator may be a better bet should you find yourself hauling people and cargo frequently.

Unlike models sold in the States, the MKT comes exclusively with the 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine and all-wheel drive. While it may not have the rumble of an all-American V8, it’s suitably swift thanks to 365 horsepower. It’s not terribly efficient, though. The ride is as smooth as the V6 thanks to standard continuously adaptive dampers.

All MKTs come standard with keyless access and push-button start, tri-zone climate control, wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel on a power tilt and telescoping steering column, power adjustable pedals, rear-view camera, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, HID headlamps, power tailgate, panoramic skylight, rain-sensing wipers, 110-volt power outlet, 19-inch wheels, and more.

A step up to the Elite trim level adds navigation, power folding third-row seats, blind-spot monitoring system, heated steering wheel, and a 700-watt 14-speaker sound system that bears the THX seal of approval.

The Elite trim level can be fitted with a Technology Package that lumps together Lincoln’s whizz-bang gizmos like radar cruise control with auto-brake, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and Active Park Assist which automatically parallel parks the vehicle. Do not underestimate the value of the latter – especially for a vehicle that’s nearly 5.3 metres long.

Key standalone options include a power sliding version of the panoramic roof, 20-inch wheels, and a Class III Trailer Towing package.