The Lincoln MKS I 3.7 V6 AWD Automatic, produced from 2009 to 2012, represented Lincoln’s entry into the full-size luxury sedan segment, aiming to replace the outgoing LS and provide a more spacious and contemporary alternative to established competitors. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the MKS lineup – which also included a 3.5L V6 and later a turbocharged EcoBoost variant – the 3.7L model struck a balance between performance and affordability. It was built on the D3 platform, shared with the Ford Taurus and other Ford Motor Company vehicles, but distinguished itself through Lincoln’s signature styling and emphasis on comfort and refinement. This variant was primarily sold in the North American market, targeting buyers seeking a comfortable, well-equipped, and capable all-wheel-drive sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | MKS |
| Generation | MKS I |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 V6 (275 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 275 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 374 Nm @ 4250 rpm (275.85 lb.-ft. @ 4250 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, i-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Length | 5184 mm (204.09 in.) |
| Width | 1928 mm (75.91 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 (Back) track | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18T |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the MKS 3.7 AWD was the 3.7-liter Cyclone V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine, part of Ford’s Cyclone family, featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized a cast aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners. It employed dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing (i-VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 275 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 275 lb-ft of torque at 4250 rpm. This power was routed through a six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift functionality, allowing for manual gear selection. The all-wheel-drive system was a full-time system, utilizing a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7L V6 and automatic transmission combination in the MKS offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the MKS provided adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission was generally smooth-shifting, although it could occasionally feel hesitant during quick downshifts. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced stability and confidence, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to the base 3.5L V6 model, the 3.7L offered a noticeable increase in power and responsiveness. However, it didn’t match the performance of the later EcoBoost turbocharged variants. The gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel economy rather than outright performance, resulting in a relaxed cruising experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The MKS 3.7 AWD typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rear-view camera, parking sensors, and a sunroof. Trim levels varied slightly over the production run, but generally included base models and higher-spec versions with additional luxury features. The interior design emphasized spaciousness and comfort, with a focus on high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout.
Chassis & Braking
The MKS utilized an independent coil spring suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The MKS’s relatively heavy curb weight (approximately 4,277 lbs) necessitated a robust braking system to ensure adequate stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lincoln MKS 3.7 AWD was generally well-received by critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and standard features. However, some reviewers noted that its styling was somewhat conservative and that it lacked the sporty handling characteristics of some of its European rivals. Fuel economy was also a point of criticism, with the 3.7L V6 consuming a significant amount of fuel, especially in city driving. Compared to the 3.5L V6 model, the 3.7L offered a noticeable performance upgrade, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel efficiency. The EcoBoost variants, introduced later in the MKS’s production run, provided a more compelling combination of performance and efficiency.
Legacy
The Lincoln MKS was discontinued after the 2016 model year, replaced by the Continental. The 3.7L Cyclone V6 engine proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. However, like many modern vehicles, the MKS can be susceptible to age-related problems such as sensor failures and electrical issues. On the used car market, the MKS 3.7 AWD represents a relatively affordable entry point into the full-size luxury sedan segment. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and all-wheel-drive capability make it a practical choice for buyers seeking a reliable and well-equipped vehicle.
