The Lincoln MKT I 3.5 GTDI V6 (355 Hp) AWD Automatic, produced from 2009 to 2011, represented Lincoln’s entry into the full-size luxury crossover segment. Positioned as the flagship of the Lincoln lineup during its brief production run, the MKT aimed to blend American spaciousness with a more modern, European-inspired driving experience. It was built on the D3 platform, shared with the Ford Flex and Ford Taurus, but distinguished itself through unique styling and a more premium interior. This particular variant, equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and all-wheel drive, sat at the top of the MKT range, offering the highest level of performance and capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | MKT |
| Generation | MKT I |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 GTDI V6 (355 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 158.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 212.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 101.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 475 Nm @ 1500-5250 rpm (350.34 lb.-ft. @ 1500-5250 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EcoBoost |
| Engine displacement | 3496 cm3 (213.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, i-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2234 kg (4925.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 507 l (17.9 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2149 l (75.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 5273 mm (207.6 in.) |
| Width | 1930 mm (75.98 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2177 mm (85.71 in.) |
| Height | 1712 mm (67.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm (117.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1661 mm (65.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the MKT 3.5 GTDI is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine, designated as part of the EcoBoost family, utilizes a twin-turbocharged configuration to deliver a substantial 355 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. The engine employs direct fuel injection, maximizing combustion efficiency and power output. The valvetrain features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with independent variable cam timing (i-VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, further optimizing performance and fuel economy. The engine’s layout is front-transverse, a common configuration for front-wheel-drive based vehicles, though in this case, it powers all four wheels. The six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, a Ford-developed unit, was the sole transmission offering for this variant. It featured a manual shift mode, allowing drivers some control over gear selection, but was primarily designed for smooth, automatic operation.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5 GTDI-equipped MKT offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the base V6 models. The twin-turbocharged engine provided strong acceleration, making highway merging and passing maneuvers effortless. While not a sports car, the MKT’s all-wheel-drive system provided confident handling in various weather conditions. The automatic transmission was generally smooth, though some reviewers noted a slight hesitation during downshifts. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright sportiness. Compared to the naturally aspirated 3.7L V6, the EcoBoost engine delivered significantly more torque, resulting in a more responsive and powerful feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5 GTDI AWD MKT was the most luxurious trim level available. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, a rear-view camera, and a power liftgate. Optional extras included a THX II Certified sound system, a navigation system, and adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options typically included woodgrain accents and a choice of color schemes. The MKT’s spacious interior was a key selling point, offering comfortable seating for up to seven passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The MKT’s chassis utilized an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and an independent rear suspension with multi-link design. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over sharp handling. All-wheel drive was standard on the 3.5 GTDI, providing enhanced traction and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The MKT’s curb weight of over 4,900 pounds necessitated a robust braking system to ensure adequate stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lincoln MKT received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine, it was often criticized for its somewhat awkward styling and lack of a truly distinctive brand identity. Compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Acura MDX, the MKT offered a different proposition – a more American-style luxury crossover with a focus on space and comfort. Fuel economy was a weak point, with combined MPG figures around 18, lower than some of its competitors. Reliability was generally average, with some reports of minor electronic issues.
Legacy
The Lincoln MKT was discontinued after the 2011 model year, largely due to slow sales and changing consumer preferences. However, the 3.5 GTDI EcoBoost engine proved to be a successful powerplant for Ford and Lincoln, finding its way into numerous other vehicles. On the used car market, the MKT 3.5 GTDI remains a relatively affordable option for those seeking a spacious, well-equipped luxury crossover. The EcoBoost engine, while requiring regular maintenance, has proven to be reasonably durable, and parts availability remains good. The MKT represents a unique chapter in Lincoln’s history, a bold attempt to redefine the brand in a competitive segment.
