• 2013

• 2012 Lincoln MKX

• Used Lincoln MKX
• Repairs Lincoln MKX

Scorecard

Overall:	2012 Lincoln MKX U.S. News Best Cars 7.5
Critics' Rating:	7.5
Performance:	7.2
Interior:	8.1
Safety:	9.0
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

• Spacious interior
• High-tech luxury features
• Cushy ride

• Performance is not very sporty
• Polarizing exterior
• MyLincoln Touch can be confusing

Research Other Years

• 2013 Lincoln MKX
• 2011 Lincoln MKX
• 2010 Lincoln MKX
• 2009 Lincoln MKX
• 2008 Lincoln MKX
• 2007 Lincoln MKX

Test drivers rate the 2012 Lincoln MKX high for its posh interior, smooth ride and high-tech features, despite handling that’s merely adequate and doubts surrounding its new touch-screen media interface.

The Lincoln MKX’s high-quality, high-tech accommodations will please nearly any shopper, and reviewers believe that leading luxury brands like Lexus should watch their backs.  Even though test drivers are apprehensive about MyLincoln Touch, Lincoln’s new touch-screen interface system, they still say the interior of the 2012 Lincoln MKX is a great place to be. With plenty of standard features and spacious seating for five, test drivers say the MKX can compete with the best in its class.

However, there are some pitfalls shoppers should keep in mind. The 2012 Lincoln MKX is tuned for comfort rather than performance and doesn’t have quite enough power for some reviewers, so it’s not the sportiest SUV on the market. Plus, some test drivers say that the MyLincoln Touch media interface is hard to master, and may distract drivers who aren’t well-versed on how to use it.

Still, the Lincoln MKX is one of the best values in its class, and buyers who aren’t speed demons and who are willing to spend extra time learning the electronics may find it’s a great option.

Other SUVs to Consider

The 2012 Lincoln MKX is one of the least expensive luxury midsize SUVs available, and few in its class can give it a run for its money. The Lexus RX 350 starts at nearly the same price, and some reviewers say it carries more luxury cachet than this Lincoln SUV. Though the RX 350 lags behind the MKX with fewer horsepower and less cargo capacity, it also includes a far smoother and more luxury-oriented ride than the MKX.

For a sportier option than either the Lincoln MKX or the Lexus RX, consider the Acura MDX. It’s one of the best-driving SUVs in its class, and even though it costs a bit more than the Lincoln MKX, shoppers looking for an engaging driving experience may find it’s worth the extra money. Plus, there’s an available third row that brings seating capacity to seven for those who need a few more seatbelts than the five the MKX offers.

Details: Lincoln MKX

The 2012 Lincoln MKX comes in front- or all-wheel drive trims and can be purchased with premium and elite packages, which add groups of interior and exterior features. The 2012 Lincoln MKX sees hardly any changes from the last model year, when the 2011 model had a significant refresh.

See a full list of 2012 Lincoln MKX specifications.

• "MKX could use a couple tweaks to make its steering less heavy at low speeds, as well as to improve the responsiveness of its MyLincoln Touch control interface. Despite these flaws, this premium-midsize SUV has the power, quietness, refinement, and interior appointments to make it a serious competitor in this segment. If you're in the market for a 5-passenger luxury crossover, be sure to put this Lincoln on your shopping list.” -- Consumer Guide
• "If you're in the market for a midsize crossover vehicle, the Lincoln merits a test-drive, especially if you're considering the Cadillac SRX. It's better than its flagging sales would indicate.” -- BusinessWeek
• “The MKX’s combination of quality materials, technical features and distinctive looks are hard to beat, ensuring luxury buyers will take notice. Those shopping a fully-load Edge Limited should seriously consider the MKX as it offers far better materials at a relatively small premium.” -- Left Lane News
• "The … Lincoln MKX has an unenviable task: It has to make Lincoln relevant again. Yet its sensual styling, lush interior and cutting-edge driver interface help this redesigned crossover take a long stride toward that end.” -- Edmunds