2017 Lincoln MKT

Crossovers and SUVs should be an easy ticket to big sales numbers for any automaker in North America's utility-crazy marketplace, but it's not a given. Just ask Lincoln, whose MKT mid-size luxury crossover carries over unchanged for 2017.

This is a slow-moving vehicle whose annual sales are counted in the hundreds while the Buick Enclave, a key competitor, has been selling 10 to 20 times as well for several years. Chalk that up to the MKT's styling, which seems to have been designed for (or by) the funeral industry.

That's a shame, because the MKT boasts a strong starting point, sharing its platform and running gear with the Ford Flex which, despite having been around just as long, remains one of the best-driving mid-size utilities on the market.

For the MKT, Lincoln skips the Flex's naturally aspirated base engine and goes straight for a 3.5L turbocharged V6 that makes 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque; it's a strong engine that gives this ungainly-looking vehicle some serious scoot. The MKT comes in a single trim that uses a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD.

While we mention the Buick Enclave specifically because it also comes from a domestic manufacturer trying to expand its reach beyond traditional demographics, the MKT faces comers from all corners of the world. From Japan, there are the Acura MDX and Infiniti QX60, Audi has its Q7 and Volvo's XC90 brings a thoroughly modern flavour to the class.

MKT's standard features include three-zone climate control, ambient lighting, passive keyless entry, power-adjustable steering column and pedals, heated and cooled front seats, steerable HID headlights, LED taillights, 19-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers and a backup camera. Optional packages bring items like navigation, power-folding third-row seats, heated steering wheel, active park assist, panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise and lane guidance.

Fuel consumption estimates are 15.7/11.2 L/100 km (city/highway).