The midsize 2010 Lincoln MKX luxury crossover SUV remains largely unchanged after significant exterior and interior changes for the ’09 model year. Based on the MAZDA6 unibody platform and sharing drivetrain and basic design features with its kissing cousin, the Ford Edge, the five-door, five-passenger ’09 MKX offers two trims, the Base front-wheel drive (FWD) and the Base all-wheel drive (AWD). Each trim offers car-like handling, luxury appointments, and options to die for – and, alas, to pay for.

Equipped with a standard DOHC 3.5-liter variable-valve-timed V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, the 2010 MKX puts out 265 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque, good enough to tow 3,500 pounds of trailer with the optional Class II Trailer Tow Package, and 950 pounds of payload. The EPA estimates 17/24 mpg for the FWD ’09 MKX, and 15/22 with the AWD configuration. This particular drivetrain is the only offering available for the 2010 MKX. Curiously, the six-speed automatic does not offer an auto-manual mode.

The '09 MKX AWD trim features full-time AWD with a center limited-slip differential. As with most permanent AWD-equipped vehicles, the 2010 MKX is not intended for serious off-road use.

The 2010 MKX shows its luxurious pedigree in such standard appearance, comfort, and convenience features as 18-inch aluminum wheels, a large chrome grille, leather upholstery and trim, eight-way power-adjustable and heated front bucket seats, dual-zone climate control, cruise, real wood and satin-nickel accents, ambient lighting, a universal remote transmitter, Bluetooth/SYNC hands-free communications and audio technology, a USB connection, and a 6-CD changer with six speakers.

Options for the 2010 Lincoln MKX FWD and AWD trims include the power-operated double-panel Vista Sunroof, rear-seat DVD entertainment, a THX-certified sound system with 14 speakers and 600 watts of power, heated rear seats, and the Limited Edition Package, featuring 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, unique chrome and badging, Limited Edition interior wood paneling, and premium front and rear floor mats.

For 2010, the Lincoln MKX is delivered with such standard safety offerings as four-wheel disc ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, the AdvanceTrac stability system along with rollover stability control, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, rear parking sensors, dusk-sensing headlights, front fog/driving lights, and a post-collision safety system, among many other safety systems and features.

Owners of the ’09 Lincoln MKX frequently mention its lack of giddy-up, as well as reliability concerns and its lack of a power-telescoping tilt steering wheel. Other owner complaints include seat comfort during extended trips, reliability issues, glitches with the Bluetooth/SYNC system, and the lack of a rear cargo cover. Mileage was considered reasonable by most owners, though some thought fuel economy should be better around town. Virtually all '09 owners, however, rave about the MKX’s styling, ride, quiet elegance, handling, and its capacious interior. Additionally, the exclusivity of the ’09 Lincoln MKX rated highly on the list of personal favorites.