2009 Lincoln MKS: Road Test
2009 Lincoln MKS ▼
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- MSRP: $38,490 - $40,380
- Invoice: $35,461 - $37,162
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Our road test for the 2009 Lincoln MKS includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Lincoln MKS from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Lincoln MKS, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Lincoln MKS help you decide if a 2009 Lincoln MKS is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 7.2 |
All MKS models are adequately peppy from a stop and have decent reserves for highway passing. Large throttle inputs are required to extract the most from the engine. The busy transmission downshifts often, and it is sometimes tardy to do so. Selecting the transmission's "SST" sport mode via the gearshift lever holds gears longer and helps the engine feel more spirited.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a front-drive MKS averaged 23.0 mpg in mostly highway driving. AWD MKS models averaged 18.1-20.5 mpg in more balanced driving. Lincoln says MKS will run fine on regular-grade gas, but performance in enhanced incrementally with the use of premium.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.9 |
No opportunity to test with standard 18-inch wheels. There is little difference in ride quality between optional 19- and 20-inch wheels. Ride is supple overall, with fine isolation from most road imperfections. Even so, the suspension seems firm enough to thump over bumps, yet at the same time is softly sprung, which allows moderate float and wallow on some road surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.6 |
Competent, but neither athletic nor fun. MKS is predictable and composed in most driving situations. There is little body lean in turns, and the brakes feel smooth and strong. The 20-inch wheels have little effect on handling.
QUIETNESS
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8.1 |
Slightly disappointing for a premium-class car. Some tire/suspension thumping is heard over pavement expansion strips at highway speeds. Sharper bumps result in noticeable body drumming. The engine sounds coarse in fast acceleration but is well-muffled otherwise.
CONTROLS
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Gauges are easy to see and read. Dash angles away from front-seat occupants, but the control buttons are easy to see and reach. The navigation system absorbs some audio functions but is simple to program. The navigation system also includes Sirius Travel Link, a handy feature that delivers real time traffic information, local gas prices and movie listings, and sports scores through the navigation screen.
DETAILS
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8.2 |
Cabin is mostly finished in leather and soft-touch surfaces, and most switchgear works with precision. However, the upscale ambiance is compromised by some obvious hard plastic trim pieces.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.5 |
Plenty of headroom and legroom for most adults. Forward-sloping dash gives front cabin an expansive, airy feel. Seats are comfortable and supportive. The standard power tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a comfort plus. Overall visibility is compromised by thick roof pillars. Tall build and seat positioning make entry and exit easy.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7.6 |
Headroom is ample, and legroom is good unless front seats are pushed far back. Available rear-seat sunroof is a nice touch that doesn't intrude much on headroom. Heated rear seats are a welcome standard feature.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Trunk space is expansive, but its usefulness is undercut by a short, shallow opening and intrusive sidewalls. Small items storage is mediocre. Despite a huge glovebox door, the compartment itself is only average-sized.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Lincoln's new flagship aims for a contemporary spin on traditional American luxury while still focusing on serene comfort instead of invigorating performance. Despite a generous list of standard luxury features and some unique high-tech gadgetry, MKS's overall refinement trails luxury-class leaders.
Total Score
| Base | AWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 68 | 67 | 74.4 |
Total Score: 68
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
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