Just In: 2010 Lincoln MKS

For 2010, Ford’s big Lincoln MKS news is the availability of their EcoBoost turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. This engine comes mated only to the MKS’s optional all-wheel drive. That makes some sense, given that the 355-hp would likely overwhelm the front wheels alone. According to EPA numbers, the EcoBoost drivetrain has slightly better fuel economy than the standard 3.7-liter all-wheel drive version, yet has much more power.

To see how it all works, we bought a 2010 MKS with the EcoBoost. Our fairly loaded “hot rod Lincoln” has the “Ultimate” Package, including a moon roof and swankier leather seats, and the Navigation Package. Adding 20-inch polished wheels brought the price to $52,770. It’s curious that the MKS has an integrated blind spot mirror in each side mirror rather than offering the electronic BLIS blind-spot detection system found on more prosaic Fords.

One question comes to mind: What if instead of using EcoBoost to improve performance over the reasonably quick 3.7 liter, Ford had sized the engine to maintain the same performance while significantly improving fuel economy? That answer will have to wait for later EcoBoost applications.

Meanwhile, we’ll see if this MKS improves on the unsettled ride and lack of agility we complained about in our previously tested MKS.

—Tom Mutchler

Comments

[Steve Bier]

Tom -

Out of curiosity, is CR going to re-test the Hyundai Genesis, now that Hyundai claims to have made "suspension tweaks" for 2010? And any chance of getting a V8 Genesis tested?

[El Cid]

Hyundai "revised" the suspension on the Azera at least three times, with no discernable improvement.
It also is not a question of testing a new Hyundai vehicle with new suspension, but testing one with 5,000 to 10,000 miles on it.

[Tom Mutchler]

We don't have plans to test a Genesis V8. We'll check on the suspension changes to see if they're significant enough to merit a retest.

[Cale]

I like your thinking, trade performance for fuel economy. But in the marketing of luxury sedans, a car is either a hybrid or powerful, or both. I see little room for "sensible economy" among luxury cars.

[coolcar]

Hmmm... Does this go under a "luxury sedan" or an "upscale sedan"?