Used 2017 Lincoln MKX for Sale nearChicago, IL

Those who want a heavy dose of luxury with their crossover should check out the Lincoln MKX. Now in its second generation since its 2007 debut, this 5-door, 5-passenger mini-ute offers a wealth of high-end features, two V6 engines (one of which is turbocharged), and more passenger and cargo room. With its 2016 redesign, Lincoln hoped this midsize crossover would gain converts from the Lexus RX 350 and Acura MDX, but for now the MKX is hindered by its reputation as a high-end version of the Ford Edge. Until it can match those luxury models in looks, quality, room, and prestige, it’ll remain an afterthought for the well-heeled American family.

The 2017 MKX is offered in four trim levels: Premier, Select, Reserve, and Black Label. All trims have standard front-wheel drive (FWD), while a full-time all-wheel drivetrain (AWD) is optional. The Sync 3 infotainment interface replaces the clunky MyLincoln Touch system, but aside from some minor changes in exterior and interior color combinations, the 2017 MKX features no significant updates.

The standard engine for the MKX is a 3.7-liter V6 powerplant, which is matched with a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission to put out 303 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. Fuel-efficiency numbers are 17 mpg city, 25 highway, and 20 combined with FWD, and 16, 23, and 19 with AWD. The engine can be upgraded to a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6, also managed by a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission. This force-fed V6 puts out 335 hp and 380 lb-ft, which translates to a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and a 0-to-60 time of 6.2 seconds. Current gas-mileage estimates are 18, 25, and 20 with FWD and 17, 24, and 19 with AWD. An MKX with the 3.7-liter V6 will currently run you $38,260 at the Premier trim level, but for improved acceleration and increased fuel efficiency, it’s worth spending the extra $2,000 for the turbocharged V6.

Some distinct mechanical features come standard aboard the MKX, including the Auto Hold feature, which keeps the car braked at long stops, allowing you to take your foot off the brake pedal. Trims with the available AWD system come with Drive Control, which offers 3 driving modes (Normal, Sport, and Comfort) that adjust suspension damping, steering, throttle adjustment, and braking. Be advised, though, that this system involves paging through the Sync 3 menu, which can be distracting and more trouble than it’s worth.

The MKX has always offered a comfortable cabin, but with last year’s reworking, its overall length has increased from 186.7 to 190 inches and its wheel base from 111.2 to 112.2 inches. This means more elbow and legroom for everyone and a second row that can now comfortably seat adults. Cargo capacity measures 68.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and toting area behind the second row of seats is 37.2 cubic feet. And with improved insulation and soundproofing, the interior is impressively quiet, even during hard acceleration.

Some unique interior touches for the 2017 MKX include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a carpeted cargo bay. All trims come with power-folding second-row seatbacks, leatherette upholstery (or genuine leather for the higher trims), memory settings for 3 drivers, a reversing camera, power-folding mirrors, and rear parking sensors. The standard audio system is a 10-speaker stereo with satellite radio, while the premium Black Label trim is delivered with a 19-speaker Revel Ultima Surround Sound audio system. The Black Label also offers a suede headliner, adaptive LED headlights, and 3 styling themes with unique interior and exterior colors and trim: Indulgence, Modern Heritage, and Thoroughbred. Many of the standard items on higher trims are available as options for the lower trims, such as upgraded wheels, GPS navigation, premium leather upholstery, and other exterior and interior trim enhancements. Other options are a towing package, two upgraded audio systems, and dual-screen rear-seat DVD entertainment.

Standard safety equipment for the 2017 MKX includes 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors, a post-collision safety system, Ford’s programmable MyKey teen-driver feature, and a remote antitheft alarm. Look for higher trims to come with daytime running lights and other enhanced security items. The optional Driver Assistance package adds lane-departure warnings, a lane-keeping system, forward-collision warnings and mitigation with pedestrian detection, and driver-awareness monitoring. The Select Plus package includes blind-spot alerts and cross-traffic alerts, while inflatable rear seatbelts and adaptive cruise control are standalone safety options. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2017 MKX its best rating of 5 stars overall, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2016 model a Top Safety Pick+ rating.