Ford Announces Pricing on 2010 Lincoln MKS With EcoBoost

The top-of-the-line MKS with EcoBoost carries a $6,890 premium over the base 2010 Lincoln MKS equipped with a conventional 3.7-liter V6. The base 2010 MKS starts at $41,695, including shipping.

The price announcement is critical, since it gives consumers a better idea of what they will pay for Ford's EcoBoost technology. The automaker said that by 2013, more than 90 percent of its North American nameplates will be available with EcoBoost.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 in the MKS produces 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Ford said the MKS with EcoBoost will deliver "at least" 17 miles per gallon in city driving and "at least" 24 mpg on the highway. However, the EPA has yet to post any fuel economy ratings for the MKS with EcoBoost on its Web site.

Standard features on the MKS with EcoBoost include 19-inch premium painted aluminum wheels, steering-wheel paddle shifters, all-wheel drive, Intelligent Access with push-button start, ambient lighting, adaptive HID headlights, rain-sensing wipers and a rear-window power sunshade.

Ford said it will roll out an MKS EcoBoost appearance package at a later date, "offering customers a more aggressive and sporty look that further differentiates the Lincoln MKS from other competitors."

That package will include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a different grille, front lip spoiler, lower rear fascia, side rockers and door cladding, deck-lid spoiler with chrome insert and 20-inch chrome wheels. Pricing is not yet available on that package.

Inside Line says: Expect to pay a premium for Ford's EcoBoost technology. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent