2007 Lincoln MKX

A Fresh Face from Lincoln

Can the new MKX reinvigorate Lincoln?

Industry analysts predict that U.S. sales of SUVs built off of car platforms — so-called “crossover utility vehicles” — will reach three million by 2010. That’s up from 2.4 million in 2006, when they outsold traditional truck-based SUVs for the first time.

To enter the fray, Ford tapped its Mazda affiliate for the mechanical basics to build the new Ford Edge and its sister vehicle, the Lincoln MKX. Both are five-door, five-passenger vehicles with either front- or all-wheel drive. The thinking is that Baby Boomers are becoming empty-nesters (their kids are growing up and leaving home) and do not need the extra passenger space but still like the versatility of this body style.

Today there are six Lincoln vehicles that use platforms and powertrains shared with Ford-branded products. Lincoln’s designers have not yet settled on a cohesive look for their cars and trucks — especially the all-important front grilles. There are four different motifs at the moment. The names of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models are also changing — the Zephyr sedan is now the MKZ, and the Ford Five Hundred is now the Taurus.

Lincoln’s challenge with the MKX is to command an $8,000 premium over a similarly equipped Ford Edge. Product managers are banking on more standard equipment, distinctive looks and the Lincoln brand image to do the trick.

Exterior

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The 186.5-inch-wide MKX sits on a 111-inch wheelbase and looks like a Lexus RX 350 on steroids. The egg-crate grille is an echo of the 1963 Continental; very American, very big and shiny. It’s attractive, if that’s your taste.

Like most car-based SUVs, the MKX’s shape reminds me of a loaf of Pepperidge Farm bread. The windshield has a very steep rake which contributes to low wind noise and a lot less bug splatter. The rear window’s shallower slope extends out from an overhanging spoiler.

The taillights comprise a wide band that extends across the entire back of the vehicle. It really stands out and was reassuring when we encountered heavy fog.

The test vehicle was equipped with 245/60 tires on 18-inch chrome wheels that come as part of the $1,995 Ultimate Package. They looked very contemporary and will be a must-have option in California.

We spent three weeks in the car, driving it from California to Ohio and back. During that time it was spotted by several people as being something new on the road; nods of appreciation followed. One trendy shopkeeper in Dallas saw the big Lincoln through her store’s front window and rushed out to inspect it. She told us she “loves Lincolns” and will soon be trading in her Lexus RX 330.