2018 Lincoln MKX Review

The 2018 Lincoln MKX is a luxury crossover SUV and a solid pick as a moderately sized high-end family hauler. Having undergone a recent redesign with primary resolve toward improved quality and luxury, Lincoln has successfully upped the MKX's ante, but under the skin, it's still pretty much a Ford Edge. A naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 engine with outputs of 303 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque powers the MKX by default along with a six-speed automatic transmission but for those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine with 335 hp and 380 lb-ft is optional. Making up the 2018 MKX lineup are four trims; the Premiere, Select, Reserve, and Black Label. In the highly competitive segment, the MKX stands out with its exceptionally luxurious ride quality which has become increasingly difficult to find in competitors.

What's the Price of the 2018 Lincoln MKX?

For 2018, the base MKX Premiere is priced at an MSRP of $39,035. Moving up to the mid-tier models sees the MKX Select priced at $42,550 and the MKX Reserve at $46,560. The upper-tier MKX Black Label punches past the 50k mark, making it the most expensive Lincoln MKX with its price of $54,230. Opting for an AWD variant will cost an additional $2,495 and an extra $2,000 is added for the optional twin-turbo V6. Those prices are excluding US taxes, registration, and licensing fees as well as Lincoln's destination charge of $1,195.

Handling and Driving Impressions

As a premium SUV, the Lincoln MKX drives luxuriously. Its ride quality is soft and smooth and despite its large-diameter wheels it always remains well-controlled. The standard suspension absorbs most road imperfections and undulations adequately and larger bumps are never taken too harshly. An adaptive suspension is equipped on the MKX with the selection of the AWD system which firms up the ride slightly but still keeps the SUV comfortable and composed.

The MKX offers some enthusiasm on straight roads with the bi-turbo engine equipped, however, it isn't as dialed-in when the road starts to bend with some body-roll exhibited around sharper turns. Despite its ample ground clearance, the MKX is still very car-like as it doesn't like tackling anything more than a dirt road or two and feels more suited to the tarmac. The steering in the MKX is firm and responds precisely to inputs. Road and wheel information is, however, vaguely communicated. The brakes are accurately responsive and provide stopping power that is easy to modulate through the feel of the brake pedal.

Verdict: Is the 2018 Lincoln MKX A Good SUV?

The 2018 Lincoln MKX is an impressive crossover SUV and family hauler, which does enough to set itself apart from the Ford Edge that it's based on. It offers two impressive engine options, front-wheel or all-wheel-drivetrains, and a refined six-speed automatic transmission. It provides a luxuriously comfortable ride in a modern and decently outfitted cabin with favorable tech capabilities and appealing comfort and convenience features. Though gas economy estimates from both powertrain options are middling, acceleration, especially from the twin-turbo V6, is phenomenal for the segment. Practicality and utility are hallmarks of the MKX too, with an abundance of trunk and in-cabin room as well as a favorable towing ability. The NHTSA and IIHS accorded the 2018 year model of the MKX with exceptional crash-test safety ratings and the SUV itself comes with a decent selection of standard safety and driver-assist features with much more available in the various optional packages. The MKX will take you and your family from point A to B safely and in total comfort and style.

What Lincoln MKX Model Should I Buy?

With more comfort and convenience features fitted as standard and with exclusive Lincoln member privileges, the MKX Black Label is our recommended trim. We suggest equipping the optional twin-turbocharged V6 for its improved acceleration and overall punch. We also recommend the intelligent AWD system for the improved all-weather capabilities and adaptive suspension that comes with it. For added safety and advanced driver-assists, we also suggest optioning in the Driver Assistance Package as well as the Technology Package for the 360-degree camera and enhanced active park assist. It may add up to an expensive all-in package, but it's worth every cent.

2018 Lincoln MKX Comparisons

2018 Lincoln MKX vs Ford Edge

Getting behind the wheel of any 2018 Ford Edge is a more affordable affair than any MKX with about a $10,000 difference between corresponding trims. Because the MKX and Edge share base platforms, they both feel relatively similar in terms of ride and quality. Though not as potent in acceleration with less output potential, the Edge's base engine is far more economical than the MKX's, returning EPA estimates of 20/27/23 mpg with the AWD guise. Although the Edge received marginally lower safety ratings in one or two evaluations, it offers an equal level of safety and driver assistance features. The Edge offers a tiny bit more trunk capacity at 39.2 cubic feet and the same maximum tow capability. Technology, comfort, and convenience features in the Edge somewhat match that of the MKX. The MKX may offer better performance and utility, but the Edge is considerably more economical, more spacious inside, and for its price point offers more value for the money.

2018 Lincoln MKX vs Lincoln MKC

At just under $6,000 less than the Lincoln MKX, shoppers can look to the more compact Lincoln MKC. It comes equipped with a smaller 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with outputs of 240 hp and 270 lb-ft with the option for a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine for outputs of 285 hp and 305 lb-ft. Both options are far slower than the MKX's powertrains but a lot more economical with EPA driving cycle estimates of 21/28/23 mpg. The MKC can be seen as a more compact version of the MKX with a shorter wheelbase of 105.9-inches. Consequently, the MKC offers about 12 cubic feet less trunk space, it also only has a 3,000 lbs max tow capability. The 2018 model of the MKC didn't receive safety ratings as good as those of the MKX. Nevertheless, the MKC is as readily equipped with technology, comfort, and convenience features as the MKX is and features a decent array of safety and driver-assist elements. Compared to the MKX, the MKC offers similar value for far less cost, if you don't need all the extra room and utility of the MKX, then the MKC is the better option.