Production MKT (2010-present)
The MKT entered production at the Oakville Assembly plant in July 2009 for the 2010 model year. It shares the same unibody Volvo-designed D4 platform as the Ford Flex and the fifth generation Ford Explorer. The MKT, however, has an entirely different design and uses completely different body panels, with design cues from the Lincoln MKR concept vehicle and the Lincoln MKS full-size luxury sedan, the latter of which is built onto a smaller version of the MKT's platform. The MKT offers a choice between two three rows seating arrangements: either a seven-passenger seating capacity with two persons in the front, three in the middle, and two in the back; or a six-passenger variant, where there is a center consul in place of a middle seat in the second row.
The production version MKT comes standard with the normally aspirated, direct injection 268 hp (200 kW) 3.7 L Cyclone 37 V-6 as used in the Lincoln MKS sedan. The twin turbocharged 3.5 L Cyclone EcoBoost engine rated at 355 hp (265 kW), which is also available on the MKS, is available Both engines are mated to a 6-speed 6F automatic transmission.
The MKT features electric power steering over more-traditional hydraulic power steering. The electric steering system is combined with ultrasonic sensors to form a hands-off "Active Park Assist" system that steers the vehicle into parallel parking slots.
The fuel economy of the MKT is enhanced by many advanced weight saving developments. The liftgate of the MKT is manufactured from an inner panel of cast magnesium and an outer panel of stamped aluminum. The MKT also utilizes magnesium in the radiator support, rear seat back and cushion frame.
Mentioned competitors in the full-size (three-row, seven-passenger) luxury crossover niche include the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Infiniti JX, and Mercedes-Benz R-Class. The Lincoln MKT is very competitive with them all. The all wheel drive, 355-horsepower EcoBoost V-6 powered top of the line MKT model has better acceleration and fuel economy than the V-8 powered Audi Q7 4.2 FSI quattro.
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