What is the Lincoln MKS based on?
The Lincoln MKS, a luxury sedan produced by the Lincoln division of Ford Motor Company, has been a popular choice for drivers seeking a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology. But what many may not know is that the MKS shares its foundation with another well-known vehicle. In this article, we’ll explore the platform and design origins of the Lincoln MKS to give you a deeper understanding of its engineering and heritage.
The Platform Behind the Lincoln MKS
The Lincoln MKS is based on the Ford D3 platform, a versatile and robust architecture developed by Ford Motor Company. This platform was originally derived from the Volvo P2 platform, which underpinned several Volvo models, including the Volvo S80. The D3 platform was designed to accommodate larger vehicles with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, making it an ideal choice for the MKS.
Shared DNA with Other Ford Models
As part of the Ford family, the Lincoln MKS shares its platform with several other vehicles. These include:
- The Ford Taurus: A full-size sedan known for its spacious interior and solid performance.
- The Ford Flex: A unique crossover SUV with a boxy design and versatile seating options.
- The Ford Explorer (earlier models): A popular SUV that transitioned to the D3 platform for improved ride quality and handling.
This shared platform allowed Ford to streamline production and engineering costs while offering a variety of vehicles tailored to different market segments.
Why the D3 Platform Matters
The D3 platform brought several advantages to the Lincoln MKS, including:
- Enhanced Safety: The platform's Volvo roots meant it was designed with a strong focus on safety, incorporating advanced crash protection features.
- Improved Ride Comfort: The platform's design prioritized a smooth and quiet ride, aligning perfectly with Lincoln's luxury brand image.
- Versatility: The ability to support both FWD and AWD configurations gave the MKS flexibility to cater to different driving preferences and conditions.
These features helped the Lincoln MKS stand out in the competitive luxury sedan market, offering a compelling mix of performance, safety, and comfort.
Conclusion
The Lincoln MKS is more than just a luxury sedan; it’s a testament to Ford's ability to leverage shared platforms to create vehicles that meet diverse customer needs. By building on the Ford D3 platform, the MKS inherited a legacy of safety, versatility, and engineering excellence. Whether you're a fan of its sleek design or its smooth driving experience, understanding the foundation of the MKS adds an extra layer of appreciation for this remarkable vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the worst year of Lincoln MKS?
There are five poor-quality years for the Lincoln MKS, each with its own flaws. However, one year has the most significant troubles of the bunch. If you're forced to pick from the least reliable years, keep this one away if you can avoid a pricey ownership period. The worst is the 2012 version.
What is the Ford version of the Lincoln MKS?
The MKS was replaced by a new car based on the Lincoln Continental concept in 2016. The Chicago Assembly Plant where the MKS was manufactured continued with Ford Taurus production until March 2019 as well as the Ford Explorer and Police Interceptor vehicles.
What is Lincoln's equivalent to the Ford Explorer?
2024 Lincoln Aviator
The 2024 Lincoln Aviator and 2024 Ford Explorer share many similar features. Both the Aviator and Explorer offer 3.0L V6 engines that pack a punch with 400 hp and 415 lbs. -ft. of torque, in addition to their 10-speed automatic transmissions.
What is the life expectancy of a Lincoln MKS?
Lincolns tend to last around 200,000 miles, which is excellent for a luxury car brand.
Which is better, Lincoln MKZ or MKS?
The main difference between the Lincoln MKZ and Lincoln MKS is size and power. If you are looking for a larger luxury sedan with more power, the Lincoln MKS may be right for you. If a midsize sedan packed with luxury features is what you are looking for, the Lincoln MKZ may be the right car for you.
Which Lincoln is bigger MKS or MKZ?
Since it's a midsize sedan, the Lincoln MKZ is bound to be a bit smaller than the MKS. Although the difference in size is not dramatic and the Lincoln MKZ is still roomy in comparison to other competitors, with 96.6 cubic feet of passenger space and 15.4 cubic feet of luggage volume.
Are Lincoln MKS expensive to maintain?
According to RepairPal, it costs an average of $879 per year to maintain and repair a Lincoln model. This is lower than the average annual maintenance and repair expense for BMW ($968), Mercedes-Benz ($908), and Audi ($1,123) vehicles.
What platform is the Lincoln MKZ built on?
CD3 platform
Lincoln built the MKZ with the CD3 platform, which is the same platform Ford was using to produce both the Ford Fusion and the Mercury Milan at the time. The first generation ran from the 2006 model year until the 2012 model year, with the second generation coming out for the 2013 model year.
What Lincoln model is most reliable?
Most Reliable Lincoln Models
2020 Lincoln Navigator: The 2020 Lincoln Navigator shines as one of the most dependable Lincoln rides out there, earning a solid reliability score of 84 out of 100 from J.D. Power.
Why did Lincoln discontinue the MKS?
However, after the release of the 2016 model, sales became less than desirable, and the vehicle was subsequently discontinued. Even though this vehicle was discontinued in 2016, it remains a top vehicle purchased by consumers seeking luxury sedans.
