The Lincoln MKS, particularly the facelifted version produced from 2013 to 2016, represented Lincoln’s attempt to offer a domestically-produced, full-size luxury sedan aimed at competing with established American brands like Buick and Cadillac. The 3.7-liter V6 with an automatic transmission was a core offering within the MKS lineup, positioned as a balance between the base 3.5-liter V6 and the more powerful, but ultimately short-lived, EcoBoost turbocharged variants. Production spanned from 2012 through 2016, with the facelift bringing revised styling and updated technology. The MKS was built on the D3 platform, shared with the Ford Taurus and Ford Five Hundred, representing a shift for Lincoln towards more contemporary, front-wheel-drive based designs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | MKS |
| Generation | MKS I (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 V6 (304 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 304 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 378 Nm @ 4000 rpm (278.8 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Cyclone |
| Engine displacement | 3726 cm3 (227.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1907 kg (4204.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 544 l (19.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Length | 5222 mm (205.59 in.) |
| Width | 2017 mm (79.41 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2172 mm (85.51 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2868 mm (112.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1648 mm (64.88 in.) |
| Rear track | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.0 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 255/45 R19 V |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this MKS variant is the 3.7-liter Cyclone V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine, part of Ford’s Cyclone family, utilizes a 60-degree V-configuration. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, enhancing both power and fuel efficiency. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports. The 3.7L Cyclone produces 304 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 278.8 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission marketed as “SelectShift,” offering a degree of manual control through steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or a selectable gear range. This transmission was designed to provide smooth shifts and responsive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7-liter V6 and automatic transmission combination in the MKS delivered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the powertrain provided adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. The automatic transmission was tuned for smoothness, prioritizing comfort over aggressive shifting. Compared to the base 3.5-liter V6, the 3.7 offered a noticeable increase in power, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more confident feel. However, it lacked the outright performance of the optional EcoBoost turbocharged engines. The gear ratios were optimized for cruising, with a focus on maintaining low engine speeds at highway speeds to improve fuel economy and reduce noise. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to predictable handling, but also limited the car’s cornering capabilities compared to rear-wheel-drive competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.7-liter MKS typically came standard with a fairly comprehensive list of features. Base models included leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system (often a Sony system), and a suite of safety features like anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as the Elite, added features like heated and ventilated front seats, a rear-view camera, a navigation system, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded interior trim materials, and a premium sound system with more speakers. The interior design was generally conservative, focusing on comfort and functionality rather than cutting-edge styling.
Chassis & Braking
The MKS utilized an independent coil spring suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride comfort over sporty handling. The MKS with the 3.7-liter engine featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear suspensions to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lincoln MKS 3.7L Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain, it was often criticized for its somewhat bland styling and lack of a distinctive brand identity. Compared to its rivals, such as the Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS, the MKS was often seen as less luxurious and less engaging to drive. Fuel economy was average for the segment, with the combined fuel consumption of 22 mpg falling in line with other full-size sedans. Reliability was generally considered good, although some owners reported minor issues with the automatic transmission and electronic systems.
Legacy
The Lincoln MKS, and specifically the 3.7-liter V6 variant, represents a transitional period for the Lincoln brand. While it didn’t achieve the sales success Lincoln hoped for, it offered a comfortable and reliable option for buyers seeking a domestically-produced full-size sedan. The 3.7-liter Cyclone engine proved to be a durable and relatively trouble-free powertrain. On the used car market, the MKS 3.7L Automatic offers a relatively affordable entry point into the luxury sedan segment. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available features make it a practical choice for those seeking a well-equipped and reliable vehicle. However, its age and relatively bland styling may limit its appeal to some buyers.
