0
0
Premium midsize SUV; Built in Canada
  • 4-door wagon
  • transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $8,800 – $34,200*


2008 Lincoln MKX


2008 Lincoln MKX


2008 Lincoln MKX


2008 Lincoln MKX


2008 Lincoln MKX

Pros:
  • Acceleration
  • Cargo room
  • Control layout
  • Quietness
  • Seat comfort
Cons:
  • Fuel economy
  • Handling (body lean in fast corners)
  • Noise (tires)
  • Steering feel

While it’s not as plush or refined as the Lexus RX, or as sophisticatedly engineered as the Acura MDX, Lincoln’s first car-type SUV merits consideration. When new, it’s priced at the lower end of the premium-midsize SUV class, yet is competitive in power, size, and equipment levels. How it succeeds depends on whether the Lincoln brand has enough cachet to draw buyers over from the prestigious imports, or up from the Ford Edge, which shares the MKX’s basic design.

Overview

Lincoln’s first car-type sport-utility vehicle was a five-passenger midsize wagon that shared its basic design and powertrain with the new-for-2007 Ford Edge. Not only did the MKX crossover display different styling, but it came with such features as leather upholstery (which was optional in the Edge), and with wood interior trim, which was unavailable in the Edge. Buyers could choose either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the latter without low-range gearing. The sole powertrain was a 265-horsepower V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Antilock braking and an antiskid system with rollover sensors were standard. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags with rollover deployment also were standard. Black rocker panels accented the standard 18-inch wheels. Options included a navigation system, DVD entertainment, and a panoramic glass roof with integrated sunroof. Also available were heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, and steering-linked headlights. Rivals included the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, Lexus RX, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

Yearly Updates

2008 MKX
In its second season, Lincoln’s MKX gained some standard features. Previously optional heated/cooled front seats and a driver’s seat memory system became standard. So did Ford’s new Sync voice-activated control for cell phones and MP3 players. A new Limited Edition Package included specific trim, 20-inch wheels, and upgraded leather upholstery.
2009 MKX
The 2009 Lincoln MKX received no major changes.
2010 MKX
The 2010 Lincoln MKX was largely unchanged.
2011 MKX
The 2011 Lincoln MKX got a major freshening, with updated styling, new features, and more power, as a 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 replaced a 265-hp 3.5.
2012 MKX
There were no changes of note to the 2012 Lincoln MKX.
2013 MKX
MKX was one of the only Lincoln vehicles not to see any substantial updates for 2013, though 22-inch wheels were a new option.
2014 MKX
For 2014, MKX was available with a new Limited Edition Package that came with unique trim features, but there were no other significant changes.

Engines

transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive

Early MKXs have a 3.5-liter V6 engine, rated at 265 horsepower, and a six-speed automatic transmission. Either front-drive or all-wheel drive may be installed. Starting in 2011, the MKX got a 3.7-liter V6 rated at 305 horsepower.

dohc V61
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.5/213
Engine HP 265
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 250
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 15/22

 16.6
dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.7/226
Engine HP 305
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 280
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 17/23

 20.7

1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years.

Road Test

Regardless of engine and whether front- or all-wheel drive, the MKX demonstrates smooth, linear power for good around-town response and ready highway acceleration. Fuel economy is not a strong point. AWD 3.5 V6 wagons averaged 16.5 to 16.7 mpg, while a front-drive 3.7-liter version averaged 20.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. The MKX uses regular-grade gasoline.

Tires thump over sharp ridges and crevices, but most road imperfections are nicely absorbed for a stable, comfortable ride overall. Body lean and noseplow are evident in brisk cornering, but MKX otherwise feels confident and controlled. Steering is slightly numb and light in straightline cruising, and the wheel springs back to the center with exaggerated force when completing turns.

Among the quieter SUVs in any class, crossover or otherwise, the MKX has more sound-deadening measure than Ford’s Edge, according to Lincoln. The engine note is subdued in all but rapid acceleration. Wind and road noise levels are luxury-car low. Normal conversation is no problem with the panoramic roof open, even at highway speeds.

Although the basic interior layout is the same as Edge’s, more padded surfaces and genuine wood trim take the MKX upscale-if not quite to the level of the pacesetting Lexus RX. Gauges and switches are nicely marked and unobstructed, though some drivers may stretch to reach the navigation touch-screen and its controls. If installed, that navigation system is no trouble to program, but it does absorb most audio functions.

Front riders get ample legroom, though taller occupants may want more head clearance beneath the housing for the panoramic roof. Supportive seats, trimmed in soft leather, spell outstanding comfort. Rear headrests partially block rearward views. Absence of a rearview camera was an embarrassing omission for the premium-SUV class.

Rear occupants enjoy fine accommodations with a firm, chair-height bench and useful center armrest. Space is abundant for knees, feet, and heads. The rear seatback reclines, but its release lever also allows it to fold forward too readily.

Cargo space is ample with rear seats up or down, helped by a low deck for easy loading. Rear seatbacks conveniently drop via a remote release, though they don’t fold completely flat.

Generous interior storage space, including a voluminous center console.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 MKX AWD w/Ultimate, Elite pkgs.

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 6
60%
Fuel Economy - 4
40%
Ride Quality - 6
60%
Steering/Handling - 6
60%
Quietness - 7
70%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Front - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Rear - 7
70%
Cargo Room - 8
80%

Other

Value - 5
50%

Total: 63

Specifications

4-door wagon
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
111.2 186.5 75.8 67.3
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
68.6 20.0 5
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
40.0 39.3 40.7 39.3
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 MKX 4-door wagon

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Front Passenger Injury - 4
80%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Brake noise
Description: Brake booster can develop a small tear in diaphragm which results in a hissing noise and soft brake pedal, but does not effect the brake’s performance. (2010-13)
Brakes
Description: The brakes may drag because the brake switch at the brake pedal is out of adjustment and applying the brakes. (2007)
Brakes
Description: The antilock brake and traction control warning lamps may come on due to one or both rear wheel speed sensors being defective. (2007)
Brakes
Description: Rear brakes may drag because of corrosion build up between brake pad and bracket. (2011-14)
Oil leak
Description: Oil can collect in baffle under left-side valve cover, enter PCV system, and eventually get inside the fresh air intake. (2013)
Steering problems
Description: Power steering fluid may leak at the rack-and-pinion unit at the banjo bolt; an improved bolt is available. (2007-13)
Steering problems
Description: Power steering fluid leak where hose connects to rack requires improved banjo bolt gasket. (2006-08)
Sunroof/moonroof
Description: The sunroof may not operate smoothly or may bind due to problems with the tracks. (2007)
Transmission leak
Description: Leak in valve body can cause slippage or clutch damage. (2013)
Transmission noise
Description: Whining noise from transmission unless a damper installed on shift cable near firewall. (2006-07)
Electrical problem
Description: A variety of intermittent drivability problems and failure of the starter to run may be due to loose wires in the fuse block under the hood. (2007)
Transmission problems
Description: Some early build 6F50 automatic transmissions may shift harshly, not at all or erratically due to intermittent short circuit conditions in either the transmission’s output speed sensor and/or turbine shaft speed sensor. (2007-08)
Interior trim
Description: The head liner drops down behind the stationary glass roof panel due to adhesive failure. (2008-10)
Software problems
Description: There may be excessive background noise during phone calls and/or problems with voice recognition while using the SYNC system requiring software improvements and a new microphone in the headliner. (2008-10)

Recall History

2008 MKX with all wheel drive
Description: A dimple in the bottom of the fuel tank at a spot weld could cause a fuel leak. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the fuel tank.
2011 MKX vehicles manufactured from July 1, 2010-October 8, 2010
Description: These vehicles were shipped with incorrectly configured electronic module settings that disable the locking function of the liftgate. The liftgate lock may be disabled and the driver may not be able to lock the liftgate using interior lock switches or remote key fob buttons. Ford will notify owners and dealers will have the affected control modules updated free of charge.
2011 MKX trucks manufactured from October 25, 2010, through November 20, 2010
Description: These vehicles were inspected using integrated diagnostic system (ids) that had a custom software routine to read the suspect body control module (BCM) serial number. Based on the serial number the BCM was either not affected or replaced. The custom software routine was not reading the correct set of characters, and was not able to identify a BCM that required replacement. Affected BCMs may have the potential for an internal short. If an electrical short develops, an overheating condition may occur which could result in a vehicle fire. Dealers will inspect the body control module and if necessary replace it free of charge.
2013-14 MKX
Description: Certain 2013 and 2014 model Lincoln MKX vehicles may have a halfshaft retention clip that was not properly installed. As a result, the halfshaft can become disengaged while driving.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on April 21, 2016.
Share this:
, , , , , , , , , , ,