Used 2016 Lincoln MKX Premiere

2016 Lincoln MKX: A Sophisticated Midsize Luxury SUV

The 2016 Lincoln MKX represented a significant evolution for Lincoln's midsize luxury SUV, aiming to blend upscale comfort with contemporary technology and a refined driving experience. Building on the foundation of its platform sibling, the Ford Edge, the MKX distinguished itself with a more luxurious interior, a quieter cabin, and distinctive styling cues. It was designed to compete in a segment populated by established players, offering a compelling alternative for buyers seeking a premium American crossover.

Highlights

• Engine Options: The 2016 MKX offered two potent engine choices, both paired with a responsive 6-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive.

  • 3.7L V6: This naturally aspirated engine produced 303 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and confident acceleration.
  • 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Twin-Turbo: This more powerful option delivered an impressive 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, offering stronger acceleration and a more dynamic driving feel. This engine also featured a sophisticated EcoBoost technology for improved efficiency when not under heavy load.

• Safety Features: The MKX prioritized occupant safety with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems designed to prevent accidents and mitigate their severity.

  • Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): This system uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots, alerting them with a visual indicator in the side mirror. This is invaluable for lane changes, especially on busy highways.
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: When backing out of a parking spot, this feature warns of approaching vehicles from either side, helping to avoid collisions.
  • Adaptive Cruise Control: This system automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a set distance from the car ahead, significantly reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.
  • Lane Keeping Assist: This system uses a camera to monitor lane markings and can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift unintentionally.
  • Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection: In certain scenarios, this system can alert the driver to a potential frontal collision and, if necessary, automatically apply the brakes to reduce impact speed or avoid the accident altogether.

• Trim Summary: The 2016 Lincoln MKX was available in two primary, well-appointed trims:

  • MKX: The base trim offered a generous level of standard luxury, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system.
  • MKX Black Label: This ultra-luxury trim elevated the experience with exclusive interior design themes (e.g., "Modern Serenity," "Themed Romance"), premium materials like Venetian leather and Alcantara headliners, and enhanced comfort features. This trim was designed for buyers seeking the utmost in refinement and personalization.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Revel Audio System: Higher trims could be equipped with an optional Revel premium audio system, renowned for its exceptional clarity and immersive sound quality, providing an audiophile-grade experience.
  • Comfortable and Quiet Cabin: Lincoln placed a strong emphasis on isolating occupants from road and wind noise, creating a serene and tranquil interior environment.
  • Refined Styling: The MKX featured Lincoln's signature grille and sculpted body lines, offering a distinctive and elegant presence on the road.
  • Spacious Interior: The cabin provided comfortable seating for five adults, with ample legroom and headroom in both rows, making it a practical choice for families.

What to Expect

Ownership of a 2016 Lincoln MKX typically involves a comfortable and refined driving experience. The ride quality is geared towards absorbing imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed journey. The cabin is generally quiet, allowing for easy conversation even at highway speeds. The SYNC 3 infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, offering intuitive control over navigation, audio, and connectivity features.

Maintenance: As a luxury vehicle, routine maintenance will be similar to other premium SUVs. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and filter replacements. While the 3.7L V6 is generally considered robust, the 2.7L EcoBoost, with its turbocharging, might benefit from adhering strictly to recommended service intervals to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Expect maintenance costs to be slightly higher than a mainstream brand, reflecting the use of premium parts and specialized service.

Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2016 Lincoln MKX will vary based on your location, driving record, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim. However, as a luxury vehicle with advanced safety features and powerful engine options, it is likely to command slightly higher insurance rates compared to non-luxury SUVs.

Potential Considerations

• Fuel Economy: While the 2.7L EcoBoost offers good performance, its fuel economy, particularly in city driving, might not be as competitive as some of its more fuel-efficient rivals. The 3.7L V6 will also have its own fuel consumption characteristics to consider.
• Infotainment Responsiveness (Early SYNC 3): While SYNC 3 was a significant improvement over previous iterations, some early iterations of the system could occasionally exhibit minor lag or slower response times compared to the absolute latest infotainment systems on the market.
• Handling Dynamics: While the MKX prioritizes comfort, its handling is not as sporty or engaging as some European competitors. Drivers seeking a more dynamic and driver-focused experience might find it to be a bit too comfort-oriented.
• Long-Term Reliability: While generally considered reliable, as with any luxury vehicle, long-term reliability can be a factor. Checking individual vehicle history reports and looking for well-maintained examples is always advisable.

Overall Summary

The 2016 Lincoln MKX is a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish, comfortable, and technologically advanced midsize luxury SUV. It excels in providing a serene and upscale cabin experience, bolstered by a choice of potent powertrains and a comprehensive suite of safety features. While it may not offer the most dynamic handling in its class or the absolute best fuel economy, its focus on refinement, quietness, and a well-appointed interior makes it a solid contender for buyers prioritizing a plush and sophisticated journey. For those looking for a premium American alternative in the luxury SUV segment, the 2016 MKX is definitely worth considering.