With a fresh look inside and out, a punched-up and leaned-out V6, and full-time all-wheel drive (AWD), the 2011 Lincoln MKX AWD has arrived. This five-passenger midsize luxury crossover boasts one of the more technologically endowed cabins on the market, with the new MyLincoln Touch LCD touch-screen control system taking center stage. This standard convenience wonder is surrounded on the outside by 18-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, and rear spoiler. Inside, standard leather upholstery, power-adjustable, multi-level heated front seats, reclining rear seats, power accessories including heated outside mirrors and digital-keypad power door locks, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with mounted audio and cruise controls, remote engine start, MyLincoln Touch, SYNC voice activation technology, dual-zone climate control, universal remote garage door opener, a single-CD audio system with 10 speakers and satellite radio, memory for driver's settings, and a USB connection complete a rather impressive list of goodies. Options include 20-inch alloy wheels, a Panoramic Vista Roof, push-button start, voice-activated DVD navigation, rear-seat DVD entertainment, rear-view camera, and upgraded THX II audio components with 600 watts of power. Oh, and it’ll tote up to 69 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats folded, too.
Optional adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support, as well as the BLIS blind-spot warning system are complemented by such standard safety features as four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags, and front and rear head airbags. Additional standard safety equipment includes rear parking sensors, front fog/driving lights, MyKey programmable speed and audio-volume limitation, and a remote anti-theft alarm.
Powering the tech-heavy MKX AWD is a 3.7-liter V6 that’s been up-powered for 2011. With its standard six-speed auto-manual transmission, drivers can expect 305 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque from this combo, to the tune of 17/23 mpg. This classy CUV is able to tow 3,500 pounds of trailer on its standard hitch (with wiring), and a center-mounted limited-slip differential ensures constant traction from all four wheels.