2013 Lincoln MKS Overview
The 2013 Lincoln MKS aimed to offer a blend of American luxury, technology, and performance in the large sedan segment. Building on its previous iterations, the 2013 model received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal with updated styling and improved features. It was designed for buyers seeking a comfortable, refined, and technologically advanced vehicle for daily driving and long-distance journeys.
Highlights
- Engine Options:
- 3.7L V6: The standard engine provided a respectable 305 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, offering a smooth and capable driving experience suitable for everyday use.
- 3.5L EcoBoost Twin-Turbocharged V6: This optional powerplant delivered a more potent 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and a more engaging performance feel, especially for those who enjoy spirited driving.
- Safety Features: The 2013 MKS was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants:
- AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control: This system monitors steering input and vehicle motion to help prevent skids and loss of control, automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power when necessary.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and potentially shorten stopping distances.
- Rear View Camera: This standard feature aids in parking and maneuvering by displaying a view of the area behind the vehicle on the infotainment screen.
- Available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): BLIS uses radar to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them with an indicator light in the side mirrors, enhancing situational awareness.
- Available Adaptive Cruise Control: This advanced cruise control system can automatically adjust the vehicle's speed to maintain a pre-set distance from the car ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways.
- Available Lane Keeping System: This system helps prevent unintentional lane departures by providing subtle steering wheel vibrations or gentle steering correction if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without the turn signal activated.
- Trim Summary:
- MKS: The base model offered a generous array of standard features, including leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, the SYNC infotainment system with voice recognition, and the MyLincoln Touch interface.
- MKS EcoBoost: This trim level exclusively featured the more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost engine and often included additional premium features and technology enhancements, further elevating the luxury and performance experience.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- MyLincoln Touch Infotainment System: While sometimes polarizing, this system offered a large touchscreen interface with capacitive buttons and voice commands for controlling various vehicle functions like audio, climate, navigation, and phone.
- Spacious Interior: The MKS provided a comfortable and accommodating cabin for passengers, with ample legroom and headroom, making it well-suited for families or those who frequently carry rear-seat passengers.
- Smooth Ride: The suspension was tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections and contributing to a quiet and serene cabin environment, characteristic of traditional American luxury sedans.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Available on select trims, AWD enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions like rain or snow, providing added confidence for drivers.
What to Expect
Owning a 2013 Lincoln MKS typically involves an experience focused on comfort and refinement. The ride quality is generally plush, soaking up bumps and potholes, creating a relaxing environment for occupants. The cabin is quiet, with good insulation from road and wind noise, making it an excellent choice for long commutes or road trips.
Maintenance: As a luxury vehicle, routine maintenance items such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements will be similar to other large sedans. However, due to the more complex nature of its EcoBoost engine and advanced technology features, specialized servicing at a Lincoln or Ford dealership, or a qualified independent mechanic familiar with these systems, might be recommended for optimal performance and longevity. Expect to budget for potentially higher costs for parts and labor compared to mainstream brands.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for a 2013 Lincoln MKS will likely be in the mid-to-upper range for a full-size sedan, reflecting its luxury branding, powerful engine options, and the cost of potential repairs for its advanced technology and safety features. Factors such as your driving record, age, location, and chosen coverage levels will significantly influence the actual cost.
Potential Considerations
While the 2013 Lincoln MKS offers many desirable qualities, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- MyLincoln Touch System: The MyLincoln Touch infotainment system, while ambitious for its time, could be prone to occasional glitches or responsiveness issues. Some users found the touchscreen interface less intuitive than physical buttons, requiring a learning curve.
- Fuel Economy: While the 3.7L V6 offered decent performance, its fuel economy was not class-leading. The more powerful EcoBoost engine, while offering significant performance gains, will naturally consume more fuel.
- Driving Dynamics: While comfortable, the MKS is not designed to be a sporty sedan. Its handling is more geared towards effortless cruising than sharp, agile maneuvering. Enthusiasts seeking a truly engaging driving experience might find it a bit too soft.
- Resale Value: As a Lincoln, the MKS historically hasn't held its resale value as strongly as some of its German or Japanese luxury competitors. This can be an advantage for buyers looking for a pre-owned vehicle, but something to consider if resale value is a top priority.
Overall Summary
The 2013 Lincoln MKS presented a compelling option for buyers prioritizing a comfortable, spacious, and technologically equipped large sedan. With its refined ride, quiet cabin, and available potent EcoBoost engine, it offered a distinctively American luxury experience. While the MyLincoln Touch system and fuel economy might be points of consideration, the MKS delivered a solid package of safety, comfort, and convenience for those seeking a relaxed and well-appointed vehicle.