Lincoln MKS Sedan

Lincoln MKS Sedan

Full 2012 Lincoln MKS Review

What's New for 2012

For 2012 the Lincoln MKS sees no changes apart from the availability of a blind-spot detection system (with cross-traffic alert as well).

Introduction

With its impressive grille and handsomely sculpted body, the 2012 Lincoln MKS certainly looks the part of an upscale luxury sedan. But as with many things in life, you have to spend some time to find a car's true character, and then what you'll discover here is essentially a reskinned Ford Taurus. The Taurus is a fine car, but there's just not enough of a difference between the two for us, even though the MKS's large price premium covers a commensurate level of standard equipment. Furthermore, the Lincoln MKS finds itself in a tough segment where there are a number of more refined choices. Although the powerful twin-turbo "EcoBoost" V6 that is available in the MKS provides plenty of performance, one could simply choose the similarly powered and considerably less expensive Taurus SHO if a roomy sedan with pin-you-to-the-seat acceleration is desired. Also the MKS lacks either the spark of excitement or the whisper of refinement in the way it goes down the road that could help it measure up to its very tough competition in this class. Comfort, quietness and power are the simple pleasures offered here.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2012 Lincoln MKS comes in three trim levels: FWD, AWD and EcoBoost. The FWD and AWD models come standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, parking sensors, foglights, rain-sensing wipers, heated power-operated outside mirrors with memory, an integrated blind-spot mirror and auto-dimming on the driver side, automatic adaptive xenon headlamps, automatic high beams, keyless entry/ignition and a slick version of Ford's touchpad entry system that's embedded in the base of the B-pillar. Interior standard features include a power rear sunshade, cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated eight-way power front seats (with power lumbar support), heated rear seats, driver memory settings, the Sync voice-activation system (includes turn-turn directions), a THX-certified sound system with an in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The EcoBoost is similarly equipped but has a more powerful twin-turbocharged engine and 19-inch wheels. The Navigation package adds a blind-spot detection system (with cross-traffic alert), a back-up camera, a touchscreen hard-drive-based navigation system with Sirius Link, and an upgraded 14-speaker THX-certified surround-sound system with a single DVD/CD player, HD radio and 10GB of digital music storage.The Ultimate package adds all Navigation items plus upgraded leather upholstery and a dual-pane sunroof (stand-alone on non-EcoBoost models). An EcoBoost Appearance package adds sporty exterior styling cues like unique 20-inch chrome wheels, exclusive seats, illuminated sill plates and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.Other options include 19- and 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control and, on the EcoBoost, Ford's automatic parking system.