“I absolutely love my Lincoln MKX and couldn't be any happier with it. I love the way it handles, looks, drives, just EVERYTHING about it. It's luxurious without having to pay too much and still takes regular gas. Love this car.”
Lincoln MKX: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Lincoln MKX is a midsize two-row luxury SUV known for its quiet cabin, comfortable ride, roomy back seat, and smooth V6 power. It favors relaxed everyday driving over sporty handling.
Comfort was the MKX’s main theme throughout its run. Early models paired a quiet ride with generous standard equipment, while the 2011 update improved the cabin, power, and technology. The 2016 redesign made the same formula more modern and added a stronger twin-turbo V6 without changing its easygoing character. After 2018, Lincoln updated the vehicle and renamed it the Nautilus.
Strengths
- The soft ride and hushed cabin make the MKX feel calm on commutes and longer trips.
- The back seat has useful adult space, with 39.6 inches of rear legroom in 2018.
- Every model covered here uses smooth V6 power, and the 2016-2018 generation also offered a stronger twin-turbo V6.
- Front-wheel drive suits ordinary road use, while all-wheel-drive models add reassurance in poor weather.
- Later examples have easier-to-use phone connectivity, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard from 2017.
Who it's for
The MKX fits someone who wants a comfortable used luxury SUV for commuting, errands, and road trips without paying extra for a sporty personality. It is especially well suited to drivers who value a quiet cabin, adult-friendly rear seating, and the added confidence of all-wheel drive on models equipped with it.
Lincoln MKX lineup
First-generation MKX models generally used a single-trim format, with option packages adding more equipment. The 2016 redesign introduced a four-level lineup: Premiere, Select, Reserve, and Black Label. Pick Premiere for the simplest version of the second-generation MKX, look to Select or Reserve for progressively more upscale versions, and consider Black Label when the highest trim level is the priority. Because equipment varies by year and package, the condition and features of the individual used vehicle matter as much as its trim name.
Lincoln MKX generations
From 2009 to 2018, the MKX spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation arrived for 2016, following the 1st Generation (2007–2015).
2nd Generation (2016–2018)
The redesigned MKX adopted more modern styling, a quieter body, revised suspension, and push-button shifting. Its engine lineup added a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, and the cabin introduced four clearly named trims.
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2018
Lincoln Connect hardware and Lincoln Way app support became standard. This was the final year for the MKX name before the vehicle became the Nautilus for 2019.
2017
The touchscreen system switched to SYNC 3, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2016New generation
A full redesign brought new styling, a quieter structure, revised suspension, push-button shifting, and a new 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 in the engine lineup.
1st Generation (2007–2015)
This generation used a five-seat, two-row layout with V6 power and front- or all-wheel drive. A major 2011 update substantially revised the styling, cabin, engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and touchscreen technology.
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2015
Carryover year and the final model year before the 2016 redesign.
2014
Essentially unchanged apart from paint-color adjustments.
2013
The MyLincoln Touch interface was revised, and the standard interior accents changed to a carbon-fiber-weave aluminum design.
2012
Minor package updates included a revised amplifier for the optional THX stereo and mirror turn signals moving into the Premium Package.
2011Mid-cycle update
A major refresh brought restyled front and rear bodywork, an all-new cabin, a 305-hp 3.7-liter V6, a revised six-speed automatic, and a standard 8-inch touchscreen.
2010
Fuel economy improved, and integrated blind-spot mirrors became standard.
2009
A power liftgate and universal garage door opener became standard.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Lincoln MKX.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Lincoln MKX a two-row or three-row SUV?
The Lincoln MKX is a two-row midsize luxury SUV. It has seating for five rather than a third row, so its focus is passenger comfort and everyday cargo space.
Is the Lincoln MKX a good fit for families?
Yes, the MKX suits smaller families that need five seats, roomy rear seating, and a calm ride. It makes more sense for shoppers who value comfort and quietness than those who need a third row.
Does the Lincoln MKX come as a hybrid?
No, the MKX is gas-powered. Earlier models use a 3.5-liter V6, models from the 2011 refresh use a 3.7-liter V6, and the second generation also offers a stronger 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6.
Does the Lincoln MKX have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the MKX was sold with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Check the individual vehicle because the drivetrain varies even among examples with the same trim name.
Is the Lincoln MKX sporty or comfort-focused?
The MKX is comfort-focused. Its strengths are a smooth ride, quiet cabin, easygoing power, and roomy rear seating. The twin-turbo V6 adds stronger acceleration without changing that relaxed character.
How many generations of the Lincoln MKX are there?
There are two MKX generations. The first ran from 2007 through 2015 and received a major refresh for 2011. The fully redesigned second generation ran from 2016 through 2018.
Is the Lincoln Nautilus the same vehicle as the MKX?
The Nautilus replaced the MKX for 2019. It continued the same basic two-row luxury-SUV role but brought a new name, refreshed styling, a different engine lineup, an eight-speed automatic, and more standard driver-assistance technology.
Lincoln MKX Reviews
What owners are saying about the Lincoln MKX.
4.3
Lincoln MKX
(1,184 reviews)
“I'd be very concerned with tire wear/ have had terrible problems with Lincoln MKX tire wear. Only 15,000 miles/ couldn't pass inspection . I turned in car early because second set had problems. I f I have same problem with this vehicle/ I'll never buy a Lincoln again”
“User friendly accessories; cargo space; maneuverability and handling. Great vehicle.”
“Good value for the money. More features, looks, and performance for the dollar.”
“Lincoln MKX is luxury incarnate for those who do not need a high end sports car, but want something sexy, safe, and beautiful. It handles with ease, the interior is beautiful, and the comfort of interior and ride are incredible.”
“Maybe the best vehicle I have ever owned. great ride and handling, headlight outstanding, quiet, Massage seat are amazing a must have.”
Sources
- media.lincoln.com — 11 / 28 / New Lincoln Nautilus
- media.lincoln.com — 08 / 27 / Safer Effortless Ride And Elegant Design Highlight All New Mkx
- media.lincoln.com — Product / 2016 / 2016 Lincoln MKX Product Card HR
- media.lincoln.com — 01 / 13 / All New Lincoln Mkx Delivers Personal Luxury
- media.lincoln.com — 06 / 16 / Meticulous Attention To Detail Elevates Craftsmanship Of Next Li
- media.lincoln.com — 11 / 17 / Lincoln Black Label Elevates Craftsmanship Quality Service