Lincoln MKX Dallas TX

BY MICHAEL AUSTIN

Lincoln refers to the MKX, its new entry into the midsize luxury SUV segment, as a CUV, which is short for crossover utility vehicle. The different acronym is used to suggest that a crossover is closer to a car than a truck. This minor distinction also helps the best of both worlds marketing position the MKX is taking: the (optional) all-wheel drive mobility and tall seating position of an SUV with the handling and performance of a sedan.

So does it work? From a styling standpoint, the MKX definitely takes a sporty stance. And the chrome grille, which spans the entire distance between the headlights, is a distinctive design touch shared with other new Lincolns, the Navigator and the MKZ. The seat height is definitely a good middle ground; the MKX is easy to get in and out of, but still offers the tall vista that SUV buyers are seeking.

The MKX is powered by a new 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 (right). It's the same engine found in the MKZ and the Ford Edge. But the 265-hp powerplant isn't the only item shared with the Edge (and the forthcoming Mazda CX-9) - both cars share a chassis and six-speed automatic transmission. The six-speed is excellent, but it can't make up for all the MKX's 4616 pounds. The 0-to-60-mph time comes in at a respectable 8.1 seconds, but that's over a second slower than the Lexus RX350, which is the most likely benchmark for the MKX. Still, the engine is smooth, and it delivers all 250 lb-ft of torque with surprising refinement. In the handling department, the MKX delivers a very SUV-like 0.75 g on the skidpad. But the ride is nicely isolated from the road while still keeping body roll under reasonable control.

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