2015 Lincoln MKT Overview
The 2015 Lincoln MKT is a three-row luxury crossover SUV that aimed to offer a comfortable and feature-rich experience for families and those seeking a more refined ride. It positioned itself as a stylish and spacious alternative in a segment often dominated by more utilitarian offerings.
Highlights
- Engine Options:
- 3.7L Ti-VCT V6: This standard engine provided a respectable 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, delivering adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6: For those seeking more potent performance, the optional EcoBoost engine offered a significant boost with 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine also featured a six-speed automatic transmission and was typically paired with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced acceleration and towing capability.
- Safety Features: The 2015 MKT came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies designed to enhance occupant protection and prevent accidents. Key features included:
- AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control: This system helps maintain vehicle stability and control by automatically applying brakes and reducing engine power if it detects a potential loss of traction or an excessive roll angle.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: BLIS alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in their blind spot. Cross-Traffic Alert warns of approaching vehicles when reversing out of a parking space.
- Rearview Camera: Provides a visual aid when backing up, displaying the area behind the vehicle on the infotainment screen.
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors: Assist the driver in maneuvering in tight spaces by providing audible and visual warnings of nearby obstacles.
- Available Adaptive Cruise Control: This feature automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
- Available Lane Keeping System: Helps prevent unintentional lane departures by providing steering assistance if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated.
- Trim Summary:
- Premier: The entry-level Premier trim offered a solid foundation of luxury and comfort, including leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and the MyLincoln Touch infotainment system.
- Reserve: Stepping up to the Reserve trim added a more premium feel with features such as ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a panoramic glass sunroof, and enhanced interior trim materials. This trim also often included more advanced safety and technology features as standard.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: The MKT boasted a roomy cabin with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers (or six with optional second-row captain's chairs), making it a practical choice for families.
- Comfortable Ride: Lincoln prioritized a smooth and quiet ride, with well-tuned suspension that absorbed road imperfections effectively, creating a serene driving experience.
- Refined Styling: The MKT featured Lincoln's distinctive styling cues of the era, with a bold grille and elegant lines, projecting an image of upscale sophistication.
- Advanced Infotainment: The MyLincoln Touch system, while sometimes a point of contention for its touch-sensitive controls, offered a comprehensive infotainment experience with navigation, audio, climate, and phone integration.
What to Expect
Owning a 2015 Lincoln MKT typically offers a comfortable and refined ownership experience. The focus on a smooth ride and a quiet cabin means that daily commutes and long road trips are generally enjoyable. Routine maintenance will be similar to other luxury SUVs, including oil changes, tire rotations, filter replacements, and brake checks. Given its luxury positioning, maintenance at a Lincoln or Ford dealership might be more expensive than at an independent mechanic, but is often recommended for specialized knowledge of the vehicle. Insurance costs will vary based on your driving record, location, and chosen coverage, but generally, luxury vehicles tend to have higher insurance premiums than mainstream brands.
Potential Considerations
While the 2015 Lincoln MKT offers many positives, potential buyers should be aware of a few drawbacks:
- Infotainment System Usability: The MyLincoln Touch infotainment system, while feature-rich, relied heavily on touch-sensitive controls. Some users found these less intuitive and responsive than traditional physical buttons, particularly while driving.
- Fuel Economy: With its V6 engines, especially the EcoBoost, fuel economy is not a strong suit for the MKT, particularly in city driving. This is a common characteristic of larger, more powerful luxury SUVs.
- Third-Row Accessibility: While the MKT offers a third row, access to it can be somewhat restrictive, especially for adults, due to the design of the second-row seating.
- Driving Dynamics: While comfortable, the MKT prioritizes a soft ride over sporty handling. Drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience might find its body roll in corners to be noticeable.
Overall Summary
The 2015 Lincoln MKT is a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing comfort, space, and a touch of luxury in a three-row SUV. It delivers a smooth and quiet ride, a well-appointed interior, and a good array of safety and convenience features. While its infotainment system and fuel economy might not be class-leading, it provides a dignified and capable vehicle for families and individuals looking for a refined American luxury crossover.
