2012 Lincoln MKS Total Car Score Analysis

The 2012 Lincoln MKS earns a Total Car Score that is slightly below average. Its drop from last year is most likely a result of newer (and better) players joining the segment. 
 
Reviewers generally like the Lincoln MKS — it is a Ford Taurus in premium upmarket clothing. The platform offers generous room within the cabin and a spacious trunk. Reviewers are also generally pleased with the interior quality, luxury amenities and comfortable ride. 
 
Detracting from its score is mediocre performance with the standard six-cylinder engine, a powerplant often labeled unrefined because it delivers less power and lower fuel economy than competitive models. The ride is compliant, but not completely settled, while handling is secure but it does lack the agility offered by others in this segment. 
 
The 2012 model is now entering its fourth year of production. The new model year welcomes only one change — a blind spot detection system with cross-traffic alert has been added to the options list.

2012 Lincoln MKS Model Line-Up

The 2012 Lincoln MKS is a five-passenger midsize luxury sedan offered in three different trim levels: MKS FWD, MKS AWD and MKS EcoBoost. 
 
There are two engines under the front hood of the MKS. The standard powerplant is a naturally-aspirated 3.7-liter six-cylinder rated at 273 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. The EcoBoost model boasts a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter six-cylinder generating 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are mated to standard six-speed automatic transmission.  
 
While the base MKS is front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive is optional on that trim level (AWD is standard with the turbocharged model). 
 
Standard equipment on the Lincoln MKS includes leather upholstery, full power accessories, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, THX-certified sound system and Ford's Sync voice-activated vehicle interface. Major options are bundled into packages (a Navigation package and Ultimate package). They include larger alloy wheels, navigation, adaptive cruise control, an upgraded THX-certified audio package with 14 speakers and a blind spot detection system. The automaker also offers an Appearance package for the range-topping EcoBoost model which adds 20-inch chrome-plated wheels, sport seats and other cosmetic enhancements. 
 
The standard 2012 Lincolnl MKS FWD model earns an EPA rated 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 25 combined, while the MKS AWD earns 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway and 19 combined. The turbocharged MKS EcoBoost earns slightly better EPA fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 20 combined.  

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