Lincoln's first-ever luxury crossover enters its second year with new driver's-seat memory settings, heated and cooled front seats, and the Lincoln Sync hands-free communication system. The MKX front-wheel drive crossover seats five, with leather front captain's chairs and a rear bench seat that reclines. The rear seat also split-folds 60/40, expanding the 31-cubic-foot cargo area to 69 cubic feet. The cargo area comes standard with tie-downs and a rear window that opens separately from the manual liftgate (a power liftgate is available). Power comes from a 3.5-liter, 265-hp DOHC V6 and 6-speed automatic that deliver 250 ft-lbs of torque. In terms of safety, the 2008 MKX Base comes with 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, traction and stability control with rollover protection, 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, a tire monitor, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows. Seat-mounted side impact bags for the backseat are optional, along with adaptive headlights. An auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear parking sensors, foglights, and dusk-sensing headlamps are also standard.

Leather seats are heated in front, with 10-way power settings. Full power features include remote entry and heated mirrors. Entertainment is provided by satellite radio and a 6-CD changer with MP3 playback. Wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, intermittent front wipers and a rear wiper, dual-zone climate control, and temperature and compass displays add extra convenience. High-end appearance is provided by wood, leather, and alloy trim on the dash, wheel, and shifter. An optional Vista Sunroof consists of a large sunroof and rear skylight. Other options include a voice-based navigation system, DVD player, power sunshades, and a remote-controlled power fold for the back seat. Appearance packages add chrome wheels and monochrome moldings and grille surrounds. A THX surround system bumps up the audio quality inside the cabin.