2007 Lincoln MKX Road Test Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published September 25, 2009

2:59 min

On the surface, the Lincoln MKX appears to compete nicely with brands like Lexus and Infiniti. The luxury crossover certainly looks the part. For example, the classically inspired chrome grille manages to come off as both retro and upscale without looking garish. From behind, the MKX has a modern, stocky stance and the LED taillights add a touch of elegance. Dynamically, the MKX is very similar to the Ford Edge. So similar that there�s little reason to consider the MKX over the edge - except of course that it�s better looking on the outside. Under the hood the Lincoln shares its 3.5 liter, 265 hp V6 with the Edge as well as its six speed automatic transmission. That transmission is reluctant to downshift and is slow to respond in general. At the test track, we found the MKX�s brakes were also slow to respond with very long pedal travel and a soft feel overall. The MKX takes 146 feet to come to a full stop from 60 miles per hour � longer than nearly every other luxury SUV we�ve tested. 0-60 comes up in 8.4 seconds which is adequate but not remarkable. In the slalom, the MKX�s stability control kicks in and limits the SUV to a speed of just 57.3 miles per hour. The MKX doesn�t look or feel athletic as there�s plenty of body roll. Part of the problem here is that the MKX weighs in at more than 4,600 lbs � heavier than other, larger luxury SUVs. As tested, this Lincoln racks up a $43,000 price tag. Shoppers at this price point may not care about sharp handling or slalom times but they�ll surely be expecting a plush interior. Most switches and controls are well placed and ergonomics overall are very good. The MKX also has a very good driving position made better by a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. Unfortunately, the leather covered seats are not very comfortable and interior fit and finish is lacking. Most surfaces have a low-buck feel and the gauges are rather plain. In the end, the Lincoln MKX just doesn�t stack up when compared to other crossover luxury SUVs. It�s too similar to the Edge to justify the price and we�d be hard pressed to recommend it over SUVs from Cadillac, Infiniti and Lexus. The MKX is only a few changes away from being a truly competitive luxury SUV. Better brakes, more power under the hood and more luxurious interior would make a world of difference. Until then, the 2007 Lincoln MKX�s beauty is only skin deep.