• 2013 Lincoln MKT

• 2012 Lincoln MKT
• Used Lincoln MKT
• Repairs Lincoln MKT

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Lincoln MKT U.S. News Best Cars 7.7
Critics' Rating:	7.8
Performance:	8.2
Interior:	7.6
Safety:	9.8
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Awards

• 2013 Best Luxury 3-Row Midsize SUV for Families

Notable for 2013

• Base engine gains 35 horsepower
• Software updates for MyLincoln Touch
• New available features
• Restyled front end

Pros & Cons

• Powerful Ecoboost engine
• Lots of standard features

• Tight third row
• Complicated, bug-filled MyLincoln Touch

Research Other Years

• 2012 Lincoln MKT
• 2011 Lincoln MKT
• 2010 Lincoln MKT

The 2013 Lincoln MKT ranks 11 out of 19 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 34 published reviews and test drives of the Lincoln MKT, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Lincoln MKT is a solid performer, but test drivers complain about its polarizing looks, complex tech controls and tight third row.

Reviewers say the 2013 Lincoln MKT is comfortable to drive and handles bumpy roads well, which may be a higher priority for shoppers looking for a smooth ride from their three-row family vehicle. Though reviewers haven’t had a chance to drive the MKT’s base V6 engine, which gained a significant amount of power for this year, they say the optional turbocharged V6 engine has plenty of power and quick acceleration. Plus, test drivers are impressed by how well-controlled the MKT’s handling is, without much of the body lean that tends to plague comfort-tuned family crossovers. Fuel economy is typical for the class, with base front-wheel drive models netting 17/25 mpg city/highway, according to the EPA.

The Lincoln MKT is the 2013 Best Luxury 3-Row Midsize SUV for Families because it has the best combination of quality, size and family-friendly features in its class.

Overall, reviewers mostly like the MKT’s cabin. They love its standard and available features, including an optional refrigerated second-row console and an available system that will parallel park the MKT almost on its own. Testers also say the MKT’s first two rows are comfortable, and they appreciate the high quality of the interior materials, which were upgraded for this year. However, most auto writers have complaints about the standard MyLincoln Touch touch-screen infotainment and climate controls. They say they’re overly complicated, and many have found glitches and bugs in the system. Plus, they write that its third-row seats are smaller than some rivals.

• “Put up against other models like the Acura MDX, Audi Q7 and Buick Enclave, the MKT isn't going to immediately stand out as best in show. But overall, there's plenty to like here, and we recommend taking a look at the MKT if you're shopping for a three-row luxury crossover SUV.” -- Edmunds

Other SUVs to Consider

The Acura MDX leads the seven-seat crossover class for its excellent combination of sporty handling, interior comfort and value. Testers love its powerful V6 engine, standard all-wheel drive and flat cornering. Its fuel economy isn’t as great as the Lincoln’s, and nor are its safety ratings, but reviewers rate its styling higher than the MKT's.

Shoppers who prefer a larger third row should consider the Mercedes-Benz M-Class. It’s more expensive than the MKT, with fewer standard features, but reviewers say its third-row seats are actually adult-sized. Unlike the MKT, the Mercedes also comes standard with all-wheel drive. Its available diesel engine is a fuel miser, and it can tow 2,700 pounds more than the MKT when properly equipped.

Compare the MKT, MDX and M-Class »

Details: 2013 Lincoln MKT

The seven-seat 2013 Lincoln MKT comes in two trims: base and Ecoboost. The base trim comes with a 3.7-liter V6 engine and front-wheel drive, while the Ecoboost trim comes standard with a more-powerful turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 and all-wheel drive. Standard features include leather-trimmed upholstery, a backup camera, MyLincoln Touch and push-button start. Available features include power-folding second and third rows, a rear cross-traffic alert system, a refrigerated second-row console and active park assist, which will parallel park the Lincoln for you.

The seven-seat Lincoln MKT was introduced for 2010. Since it hasn’t changed much since then, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2011 and 2012, as well as 2013.

See the full 2013 Lincoln MKT specs »