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2009 Lincoln MKS Performance Review

July 28, 2008

PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

more powerful
Edmunds

laid rubber in the parking lot
Jalopnik

all of this works remarkably well
Autoblog

Those thirsty for V-8-style power will have to wait
Automobile

The 2009 Lincoln MKS performs well enough to earn its luxury status, but its handling is more notable than its acceleration.

A new 275-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 powers the MKS. The engine performs adequately, with a high degree of smoothness and little noise or fuss. While premium fuel is required to hit the 275-hp mark, using regular fuel delivers a still healthy helping of horsepower with no change in fuel economy (17/24 mpg for front-wheel drive and 16/23 mpg for all-wheel drive).

Edmunds said "the MKS is motivated by a more powerful version of the Duratec motor…bored slightly to increase displacement to 3.7 liters.” As a reminder, they noted that “if you use 87 octane in the MKS, the peak power drops to 273 hp and torque totals 270 lb-ft." Power is adequate in the MKS, but not lavish; Jalopnik wrote, "My concerns about pickup and handling were pretty much assuaged when I had to take a left turn across 4 lanes of highway traffic to head back to D.C. and laid rubber in the parking lot." Popular Mechanics agreed, noting the "3.7-liter V6 delivers smooth and entirely acceptable thrust considering the 4,127 pounds it's required to haul around. In other words, this isn't exactly the hot rod Lincoln of yore.”

Automobile notes, "Those thirsty for V-8-style power will have to wait until next spring, when the MKS will be the first recipient of Ford's new, twin-turbo, direct-injection, 3.5-liter V-6 engine," which Lincoln promises will deliver the "performance of a V-8 with the fuel efficiency of a V-6." Estimates are for 340 hp, 340 pound-feet of torque, and an estimated 23 mpg on the freeway.

The new Lincoln's six-speed automatic is seen in other Ford products such as the Edge, but has been thoroughly recalibrated for this upscale installation. In the MKS, the transmission includes a sport mode as well as manual shift capabilities. Throughout the hills of Virginia just outside of Washington, D.C., with the transmission in the sport setting, the gearbox shifted aggressively. Its performance was close to anticipatory and did an excellent job of keeping the Lincoln in the right gear at the right time—just what an automatic transmission should do. Popular Mechanics felt “the 6-speed's ratios are well chosen, but aggressive driving can lead to unpredictable downshifts—on several occasions we attempted passes which required one, then another kickdown.” Motor Trend “preferred the Sport Drive mode the most, which means quicker up- and downshifts, yet there is little need to opt for the Manual mode.”

Another bright spot for the 2009 MKS is its chassis. The MKS features a totally new multilink rear suspension (not shared with the Ford Taurus or any Volvo) with coil-over shocks and a retuned front strut suspension, then bolts them both to a reinforced chassis that is 35 percent stiffer than the current Taurus. The resulting ride is Goldilocks taut: not too soft and not too hard, even with the optional 20-inch wheels. Steering response is quick, and while driving at street speeds, the understeer one expects from a largish front-wheel-drive sedan is totally absent. The MKS is also available with all-wheel drive.

Commenting on the 2009 MKS's new chassis, Autoblog wrote, "Moving the [rear] dampers closer to the wheels allows for greater travel, thus improving their effectiveness. The extra travel allows greater latitude for the engineers to tune the damping behavior for the optimum balance between comfort and handling. On the road all of this works remarkably well." Smaller 18-inch wheels are standard, while 19- and 20-wheels are optional. The bigger wheels “fill the wheel wells nicely,” but Popular Mechanics points out “they also transmit road imperfections resulting in a somewhat busy ride. Big concrete expansion joints and potholes send a bit too much motion up into the cabin, but the MKS certainly handles big sweeping turns with stability and confidence.” Autoblog adds that the car's interior "calm isn't disturbed by the action at the road either. Even with low profile rubber on those big wheels, occupants don't take a beating…the new suspension setup proved its worth." Motor Trend says that overall, “The car drives with a substantial feel, yet is never ponderous.”

As for the Lincoln MKS’s brakes, Motor Trend notes that they “feel linear, responsive, and feel as though they have plenty of stopping power in reserve.”

Conclusion

The 2009 Lincoln MKS has ordinary acceleration, but its sporty-shifting automatic and taut ride give reviewers new respect for the brand.

PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:more powerfulEdmundslaid rubber in the parking lotJalopnikall of this works remarkably wellAutoblogThose thirsty for V-8-style power will have to waitAutomobile The 2009 Lincoln MKS performs well enough to earn its luxury status, but its handling is more notable than its acceleration. A new 275-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 powers the MKS. The engine performs adequately, with a high degree of smoothness and little noise or fuss. While premium fuel is required to hit the 275-hp mark, using regular fuel delivers a still healthy helping of horsepower with no change in fuel economy (17/24 mpg for front-wheel drive and 16/23 mpg for all-wheel drive). Edmunds said "the MKS is motivated by a more powerful version of the Duratec motor…bored slightly to increase displacement to 3.7 liters.” As a reminder, they noted that “if you use 87 octane in the MKS, the peak power drops to 273 hp and torque totals 270 lb-ft." Power is adequate in the MKS, but not lavish; Jalopnik wrote, "My concerns about pickup and handling were pretty much assuaged when I had to take a left turn across 4 lanes of highway traffic to head back to D.C. and laid rubber in the parking lot." Popular Mechanics agreed, noting the "3.7-liter V6 delivers smooth and entirely acceptable thrust considering the 4,127 pounds it's required to haul around. In other words, this isn't exactly the hot rod Lincoln of yore.” Automobile notes, "Those thirsty for V-8-style power will have to wait until next spring, when the MKS will be the first recipient of Ford's new, twin-turbo, direct-injection, 3.5-liter V-6 engine," which Lincoln promises will deliver the "performance of a V-8 with the fuel efficiency of a V-6." Estimates are for 340 hp, 340 pound-feet of torque, and an estimated 23 mpg on the freeway. The new Lincoln's six-speed automatic is seen in other Ford products such as the Edge, but has been thoroughly recalibrated for this upscale installation. In the MKS, the transmission includes a sport mode as well as manual shift capabilities. Throughout the hills of Virginia just outside of Washington, D.C., with the transmission in the sport setting, the gearbox shifted aggressively. Its performance was close to anticipatory and did an excellent job of keeping the Lincoln in the right gear at the right time—just what an automatic transmission should do. Popular Mechanics felt “the 6-speed's ratios are well chosen, but aggressive driving can lead to unpredictable downshifts—on several occasions we attempted passes which required one, then another kickdown.” Motor Trend “preferred the Sport Drive mode the most, which means quicker up- and downshifts, yet there is little need to opt for the Manual mode.” Another bright spot for the 2009 MKS is its chassis. The MKS features a totally new multilink rear suspension (not shared with the Ford Taurus or any Volvo) with coil-over shocks and a retuned front strut suspension, then bolts them both to a reinforced chassis that is 35 percent stiffer than the current Taurus. The resulting ride is Goldilocks taut: not too soft and not too hard, even with the optional 20-inch wheels. Steering response is quick, and while driving at street speeds, the understeer one expects from a largish front-wheel-drive sedan is totally absent. The MKS is also available with all-wheel drive. Commenting on the 2009 MKS's new chassis, Autoblog wrote, "Moving the [rear] dampers closer to the wheels allows for greater travel, thus improving their effectiveness. The extra travel allows greater latitude for the engineers to tune the damping behavior for the optimum balance between comfort and handling. On the road all of this works remarkably well." Smaller 18-inch wheels are standard, while 19- and 20-wheels are optional. The bigger wheels “fill the wheel wells nicely,” but Popular Mechanics points out “they also transmit road imperfections resulting in a somewhat busy ride. Big concrete expansion joints and potholes send a bit too much motion up into the cabin, but the MKS certainly handles big sweeping turns with stability and confidence.” Autoblog adds that the car's interior "calm isn't disturbed by the action at the road either. Even with low profile rubber on those big wheels, occupants don't take a beating…the new suspension setup proved its worth." Motor Trend says that overall, “The car drives with a substantial feel, yet is never ponderous.” As for the Lincoln MKS’s brakes, Motor Trend notes that they “feel linear, responsive, and feel as though they have plenty of stopping power in reserve.” ConclusionThe 2009 Lincoln MKS has ordinary acceleration, but its sporty-shifting automatic and taut ride give reviewers new respect for the brand.  2009 LINCOLN MKS STYLING | [8 out of 10] Automobile: "adorned simply and effectively" Edmunds: "presents itself convincingly as a luxury car" Autoblog: "MKS has far more presence" Jalopnik: "it does look pretty damn cool" The 2009 Lincoln MKS's distinctive styling sets it apart ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The Lexus GS was the bogie for Lincoln, and the 2009 Lincoln MKS certainly hits the mark in terms of quietness. Lincoln claims to be even quieter than the Lexus in certain important frequency ranges. The Lincoln MKS is also on the mark in terms of performance. Like the Lexus GS and the Acura RL, the MKS is powered by a six-cylinder (in addition, Lexus offers a V-8 and a hybrid). The car targets a more luxury- and technology-minded audience with its myriad of features. The rear-wheel-drive Cadillac CTS and STS have a more sporting demeanor, and you could shop either against the MKS, depending on how much room you're looking for. The Cadillac STS offers a V-8 for those who want more power.

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See the Lincoln MKS in Other Years:

2010 | 2009

Comments (18 total)

  1. By Jeff #1, Posted: 6/18/2008

    UGLY

    It was a nice try, but now I know what happened to all of the overstocked Hyundai XG350 tail lights. I get dizzy looking at the chrome front end elements going different directions. The dash is very nice until you focus in on the gauges that look like they belong in a 1977 Thunderbird

  2. By Larry #2, Posted: 6/20/2008

    Good Effort by Lincoln

    This is a good looking vehicle produced by Lincoln. It results in a well appointed mid-luxury vehicle to compete with the Lexus ES, Acura RL, Nissan Mxx, Cadillac STS and the Chrysler.......They are still working on it.

  3. By Daniel Ho #3, Posted: 6/22/2008

    It's bigger than it looks

    The MKS is about the same size as the A8L, 750iL, S550, and LS600hL. Against those cars, it's a bargain.
    I think it's a clever marketing position, being an AWD fullsize flagship but at least half the price of those cars.
    Whether the public perceives the advantage, it's not clear. I don't see Lincoln publicizing it's size as a selling feature.

  4. By Frank #4, Posted: 6/24/2008

    Frank

    The only way Larry could have made those positive comments about the Lincoln and the negative comments about the best in class, all the others, is because he's living under a rock.

  5. By rob #5, Posted: 6/28/2008

    it's ok

    too bad it's front wheel drive I prefer lexus or BMW for this $

  6. By Larry #6, Posted: 6/30/2008

    Chrome is Dangerous.....to some

    You must suufer from epilepsy Jeff if all the chrome on the Lincoln causes you to have a fit. It must be horrible for you in a modern kitchen with all the stainless steel appliances. Perhaps with your condition, you should not be commenting on car styling because it is obvious that ALL car manufactureres are adding chrome details to their vehicles for styling purposes. I hope you get better

  7. By Jeff #7, Posted: 6/30/2008

    I love chrome, when it's done well

    Larry, I love the chrome trim everyone is coming back with. Nearly everyone adding chrome is doing it well. But this car has an over powering vertical grille on top of the horizontal chrome strips of the lower air dam, which sit next to odd shaped fog light chrome surrounds. Except for the top lines of the grille and headlights, not a single line on the front end flows with any other element. Sorry Larry, this is just my opinion. The rest of the car is not bad.

  8. By Ike #8, Posted: 7/1/2008

    Mr.

    I love this car. It has very clean uncluttered lines. I think the crhome is a nice touch, but not overdone. The fit and finish on the car is on par if not better than the rest. Tons of technology features. the 3.7 has more than enough power. It feels a lot stronger than the horsepower posted. Thousands less and a much better buy than the imports.

  9. By Stuart Schwartz #9, Posted: 7/5/2008

    An Absolute Beauty

    It's gorgeous car and now that I've finally driven one I have to say that Lincoln has a real winner on their hands. Rides nicer and handles better than the more expensive imports. The navigation system is the best of any car out there now.

  10. By Jonathon #10, Posted: 8/20/2008

    Well Done!

    This is the best American car that I've driven since the '70s and I'd consider buying it, but would definitely wait until the twin-turbo comes out, hopefully with a sport-tuned suspension. Come on Ford! You've gone so far with this one, why not go all the way?

  11. By CBond #11, Posted: 9/2/2008

    Made My Choice

    After testing the Lexus 350, Acura RL and the Cadillac CTS I chose the Lincoln MKS. The interior is roomier, and better appointed than any of the others. The technology is fantastic - all the way down to the jukebox. The ride is magnificent.
    It took a while to warm up to the new front grille and the rest of the outside is ok, but it was the ride and the interior that sold me. well done!

  12. By phil #12, Posted: 9/10/2008

    Most Exciting Midsedan

    Tested most if not all in same class and dollar range. Found MKS to be the best and most innovative choice in a rather unexciting universe. BMW 528i, Lexus E and GS, Audi A6, Mercedes E, Caddy CTS, all left me feeling mostly bored. The MKS gives you all the options at 47k. Most of the others are unexciting or need to add big $$ to get the goods. Still MKS technology and options are superior for the new age. No, its not a European sports car, besides we are talking mid-sedan anyway but, for the money it does the job well. Lincoln hit it big on this one.

  13. By Charles #13, Posted: 10/21/2008

    Mr.

    Anyone who would spend over $40,000 on any other sadan than this Lincoln MKS most likely hasn't done their home work. This is the best sadan America has come out with in decades. It runs on regular fuel, has a great warrenty, four wheel drive option, very large interior, and the insurance cost is very reasonable. Cadallac has very good cars but not quite the Pride of a Lincoln name. And forget about Chrysler. Be foolish enough and go purchase a German or Japanese car, but the same rewards or better are right here in the Lincoln MKS. And if this weren't enough theres a Turbo version with all wheel drive coming soon.

  14. By L Pavia #14, Posted: 11/13/2008

    Absolute Success!

    Lincoln has successfully completed the journey it started way back in 1988 with the first front-drive Continental. Nicely styled, beautifully generic, void of all the "horrible 1970's-esque" Lincoln cues of yore such as stand-up grilles, hood ornaments and tire bulges. At least now, the new flagship MKS can truly become a Pontiac in the front, a Buick or Nissan in the side, and a Hyundai from the rear. It boasts that forever-in-style "hip-hop" rear door quarter glass kick-up and straight-line-down, "ignore the rear wheel well" rear door seam (think recent Nissans). The ovoid treatment of the MKS's beltline/glass would make even the Richest Golfer in The World drool over it's resemblence to the Buick Lucerne/LaCrosse. Especially well-done is the minimal cowl distance from the front wheel opening to the front door seam. Not ever to be confused with a Cadillac, this design cue reaches back to the "Cab Forward" Front-Drive Chrysler sedans of the early 1990's, which minimized the cowl/hood areas of the car while extending the cabin profile. The "historic" split grille pays homage to the 1941 Continental in the same classy way Chicago's historic Soldier Field Stadium was recently reconstructed; a superb blending of old and new, aka the full-width recessed void under the bumper area that completely ignores the split-grille above. Also, many a Pontiac over the decades utilized the unique split-grille design feature. At least the new MKS will not be confused with, say, any Lincoln product of the past. The superbly crafted rear harks back to the Hyundai 350 series, but with the added visual of the Ultra-Prominent License Plate Surround, thus making it easier for police and red-light cameras to more fully capture the Lincoln driver's plate number for traffic violation purposes. The fine sculpting of the car's tail will compliment any type and/or color of graphic design on today's various license plates, much like a lighted mini-billboard. The Front Drive platform with V-6 Power is definitely in keeping with Today, much like the Classic 1988 Continental (also known as "Taurinental" -- never out of style -- It's Always 1988!) The MKS's impressive fuel economy is similiarly noteworthy: 17 city and 24 EPA highway is less than my outdated, rear-drive 1989 Towncar with a Push-Rod 5-Liter V-8 and a Hood You Can See From The Driver's Seat. In short, The new MKS is an absolute mile-stone automobile in historical styling and sophistication borrowed from other lesser products, creating an award-winning "genericar", which every Lexus designer yearns for.

  15. By Hummer #15, Posted: 2/19/2009

    BUY AMERICAN

    Wake up. This car is American built. 75% of it's parts are not imported from Japan either. Who gives darn what it looks like compared to foreign cars. Its a beautiful car. Support your own country, your neighbors and your family.

  16. By  Mark #16, Posted: 8/14/2009

    I love this car!

  17. By americanboy #17, Posted: 8/31/2009

    Buy an american car its the best luxury vehicle goin better than lexus mercedes acura or BMW more comfortable anroomy and with more features than a porsche or lotus or bentley not to mention as reliable as any of the japanese cars. And very stylish and amazing

  18. By kary #18, Posted: 11/5/2009

    Front grill has too much chrome. That interior is boring. I think the BMW and Audi lines make much more attractive cars in this price range. I would very much like to buy an American car the next time I need one (and think they are made better than the Euroepean ones), but not one this unappealing.

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