Full 2014 Lincoln MKT Review
What's New for 2014
For 2014, the Lincoln MKT is unchanged.
Introduction
Thanks to good genes, the seven-passenger 2014 Lincoln MKT does a lot of things right. Based on the highly regarded Ford Flex, the Lincoln MKT shares much of that large crossover wagon's attributes. These include solid all-around performance, comfortable seating and a well-built cabin with a satisfying array of high-tech features. Given that the MKT is the Ford's uptown cousin, you'd expect it to be even better -- and certainly, it has a more luxurious cabin ambience. Compared with the box-shaped Ford, though, this more stylized Lincoln crossover comes up a little short in the utility department.
First, the positives. The Lincoln's interior boasts a classy design, high-quality materials and plenty of sound insulation to ensure a tranquil ride on those long road trips. You won't be wanting for luxury and convenience features either, as even the base MKT comes pretty loaded, while options include automated parallel-parking assist, heated and ventilated second-row seats and a lane-departure warning/avoidance system. The MKT also has a confident attitude on the highway, and when equipped with the available 365-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine, it's pretty quick.
However, the 2014 Lincoln MKT's swept-back roof line and sloping rear window translate to less interior volume -- compared with both the boxy Flex and most other three-row luxury crossovers. As a result, there's less space available for cargo and passengers riding in the third row. Another annoyance is the MyLincoln Touch electronics interface (which is similar to the MyFord Touch system in the Flex): It looks slick, but it can be annoying to use due to the sluggish response from the touch-activated controls.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2014 Lincoln MKT is offered in two trim levels: MKT and MKT with EcoBoost.
Standard MKT equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, automatic high beams, keyless ignition/entry, a sunroof, rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, 60/40-split-fold heated second-row seats (outboard only), 50/50-split-folding third-row seats, power-adjustable pedals, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, tri-zone automatic climate control, retractable manual second-row sunshades and a 110-volt power outlet. Electronic features include the Sync voice command system, the MyLincoln Touch electronics interface, mobile WiFi, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and USB/iPod interface.
The MKT EcoBoost model adds a more powerful V6 engine, all-wheel drive and adaptive suspension dampers with three driver-selectable modes.
The Elite package (EcoBoost trim only) adds a power-folding/tumble third row (with tailgate seating feature), a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alerts, a heated steering wheel, a navigation system and a 14-speaker premium audio system.
A Technology package (available only in combination with the Elite package) includes adaptive cruise control, a collision-mitigation system with brake support, a lane-keeping alert/assist system and an automatic parallel-parking assist system.
