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MKS has repositioned Lincoln several notches higher in the luxury sedan market, and that's where they need to be realistically to compete with Cadillac, Lexus and other notables in this intensely competitive arena. While rear-wheel-drive (RWD) is making a comeback in the premium market, the MKS ascribes to front-wheel-drive (FWD) unless the all-wheel-drive (AWD) option is selected; and after enduring a sequence of unusually brutal snowstorms, I have nothing but praise for the AWD configuration propelling my tester.
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| The MKS has repositioned Lincoln several notches higher in the luxury sedan market. |
More power from enlarged Duratec Ford grew its highly popular 3.5-litre DOHC 24-valve Duratec V6 to 3.7-litres to ensure it had sufficient oomph to competently handle the weight of the MKS, which hits a substantial curb weight of 1,957-kg (4,305 lbs.) when fully furnished and equipped with AWD. The upsized Duratec is rated at 273 horsepower @ 6,250 rpm and 270 pound-feet of torque @ 4,250 rpm, and thankfully that's while burning regular unleaded fuel. Perhaps sensing the roller coaster pricing of fuel of late, Ford scrapped plans to option the MKS with a V8. The fuel-efficiency of a V6 is an appealing factor for many prospective purchasers. The AWD MKS is rated at 12.9 and 8.8 L/100km city and highway driving respectively.Those wanting V8-inspired performance are asked to standby while Ford readies their turbocharged, direct injection version V6. According to Ford, this engine will supply V8-like power while returning V6 economy, making the MKS the most powerful and fuel-efficient AWD luxury sedan on the market. Today's power flows to the wheels through the management of a six-speed automatic transmission capable of swapping cogs with transparency such that no one notices. The engine and transmission seamlessly blend to create a polished, genteel propulsion team.
Spacious cabin oozes elegance When it comes to quality and style, Ford interiors have undergone a renaissance of late. The Lincoln Division leverages that newly found skill, propelling it even further with the MKS cabin, which is exceptionally alluring and appealing.
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| The upsized Duratec is rated at 273 horsepower 6,250 rpm and 270 pound-feet torque of 4,250 rpm |