2008 Lincoln MKX Review
2008 Lincoln MKX Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Comfortable and quiet ride, lots of standard features, spacious passenger quarters.
Cons
- Poor braking distances, smallish cargo capacity, low-grade interior materials, rock-hard front seats, no dynamic advantage over the Ford Edge.
What’s new
The 2008 Lincoln MKX receives the new Sync electronics interface system. Also, former options are now standard equipment, including reverse parking sensors, satellite radio, and heated and cooled seats with memory. Voice activation is added to the optional navigation system. A pair of special edition appearance packages is also now available.
Edmunds says
The 2008 Lincoln MKX is a well-equipped and comfortable luxury crossover, but it comes up far short against similarly priced competition.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2008 Lincoln MKX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $5.35 per gallon for regular unleaded in California.
Monthly estimates based on costs in California
$341/mo for MKX Base
MKX Base
vs
$278/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Vehicle overview
When trying to make a grand entrance into a party, it's best to show up a little late and be magnificent. Just think of Scarlett O'Hara, descending a curved staircase in a miraculously elegant dress made of green curtains. The Lincoln MKX also showed up late to a party: one filled with luxury crossover SUVs from import and domestic brands that successfully blend competent on-road manners, luxury-car trappings and family-friendly accommodations. The 2008 MKX does its best to fit in with this party, but it ends up doing it as that scene really went down, with Carol Burnett's Scarlett O'Hara descending a curved staircase in a dress made of green curtains -- but with intact gold tassels and a curtain rod.
The MKX certainly looks elegant, with tasteful yet eye-catching exterior styling. The strip of LED taillights is particularly striking, as is the grille that evokes the 1960s Lincoln Continental. In terms of features, the MKX is a standout, as it comes with more standard features than its pricier competitors. Several of last year's optional items are now standard equipment, plus Ford's impressive new Sync system now comes on all MKXs. This electronics interface technology co-developed with Microsoft allows for drivers to control communication and entertainment devices like cell phones, PDAs, iPods and other MP3 players via voice commands.
Under the MKX's skin, though, are the gold tassels and curtain rod. The MKX is mechanically identical to the Ford Edge, a nice family crossover with a good amount of performance, comfort and driving involvement. However, this vehicle makes a better case against models from Honda, Toyota and Nissan than it does against Acura, Lexus and Infiniti. The MKX is slower than its competitors, less refined, has worse brakes and features interior construction not befitting a full-fledged luxury vehicle. It also provides less cargo space than most other luxury crossovers, and there is no third-row option.
Having attractive styling and a longer list of features isn't enough to make the 2008 Lincoln MKX a compelling choice over other X-branded luxury crossovers like the Lexus RX 350, Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX and Infiniti FX35. For those looking to the MKX as a slightly cheaper alternative to those vehicles, the Hyundai Veracruz Limited is also worth a look. The MKX is only a few changes away from being a truly attractive proposition. A new set of brakes, a bit more powerful engine and interior materials similar to those that will appear in the forthcoming MKS sport sedan will make a world of difference. Until then, it had better avoid descending a staircase.
Performance & mpg
The Lincoln MKX is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 265 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. There is a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, but unlike competitor models, there is no manual shift control feature. With the optional Class II towing package, the MKX is able to tow 3,500 pounds. In performance testing, the MKX went to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds -- an average time for the midsize luxury crossover segment. Fuel economy for 2008 is 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive model, while all-wheel drive reduces mileage by only 1 highway mpg.
Safety
As is fitting for a luxury SUV, the 2008 Lincoln MKX comes standard with a wide array of safety features. Antilock brakes, traction control and stability control (including rollover mitigation technology) are standard, as are six airbags, including front-seat side impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. The MKX did very well in crash tests. In government testing, it got five out of five stars for frontal driver and side impact protection and four stars in frontal passenger collisions. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the MKX its highest rating of "Good" for frontal-offset and side impact protection.
Driving
Stopping in the 2008 Lincoln MKX can be an adventure since Lincoln has made no effort to improve upon the Edge's meager braking performance. The MKX took 146 feet to stop from 60 mph -- and that was the best distance among five attempts -- which is much longer than virtually every other luxury crossover. The MKX's ample weight is partly to blame for this, and it also takes its toll on acceleration and handling. Nevertheless, the 3.5-liter V6 is smoother and more vigorous than any Ford-based V6 in recent memory and the steering is nicely weighted, providing a good amount of feedback for around-town driving. The ride is also comfortable, while the interior is very hushed, creating a serene driving environment.
Interior
The MKX's ergonomics are generally good and the controls work in a straightforward fashion, but somebody needs to tell Lincoln that simply spraying silver paint on stock Ford switchgear and calling it a "satin-nickel finish" doesn't create a luxurious, high-quality environment. The other plastics within the MKX's interior also have a low-rent feel, and even the gauges are plain. Fit and finish is another area that needs to be improved, as do the rock-hard front seats.
Looking on the bright side of things, there are plenty of standard and optional creature comforts like heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and a plethora of entertainment options. Both rows of seats offer plenty of space -- particularly in back, where three people can fit well enough in the MKX's wide body. The cargo area is another story. Its capacity is limited to a maximum of 69 cubic feet, less than what many competing models offer.
2008 Lincoln MKX models
The 2008 Lincoln MKX is a five-passenger luxury crossover SUV that comes in one trim level. Standard features include 18-inch wheels; a reverse parking system; a tilt-telescoping steering wheel; dual-zone automatic climate control; an auto-dimming mirror; heated and cooled power front seats with driver memory; leather upholstery; the Sync electronics interface system; and a six-speaker stereo with six-CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. Optional features include 20-inch chrome wheels, heated rear seats, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, a voice-activated navigation system and an upgraded 11-speaker surround-sound audio system. The latter three items can be ordered together in the Elite Package.
The Ultimate Package adds 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, adaptive headlights, trunk-mounted folding rear seat releases, power tailgate, upgraded leather upholstery and a cargo management system. A Limited Edition package includes special exterior and interior appearance items and the 20-inch wheels. A Monochrome Limited Edition package is similar, but features a body-colored grille.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#6 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Lincoln MKX from 2008-2022.$489/yr
vs. $602/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.04x/yr
vs. 1.09x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).9.5%
vs. 9.4%
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2008 Lincoln MKX.
5 star(76%)
4 star(13%)
3 star(6%)
2 star(1%)
1 star(4%)
78 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
The perfect small SUV
Pete, 11/22/2016
2008 Lincoln MKX 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
I'm a coupe kind of guy. I like to be low to the ground and have a grip of where all my tires are. The idea of an SUV has never really intrigued me... that is until I test drove the MKX. It was small enough that I felt like I still had control of it and large enough to handle any extra storage we may need. I loved the black interior with natural-colored wood grain trim. It's the perfect … combination in my opinion. On top of the black exterior. For an '08 the features are pretty outstanding. The white dash lights are very nice as opposed to the green or amber I've been so accustomed to. The ride is very comfortable and the cooled/heated seats make it even more comfortable. The interior lighting is bright, but it's not annoying to the driver. The only thing we had come up with it is the speed sensor went out 1500 miles after owning it. Fortunately, the dealer put a 3000-mile warranty on it, pretty surprising for an 8-year-old vehicle, and it was covered. Otherwise, it was about an $800 expense. Regardless, I love this SUV. I'm very glad we held out and went with Lincoln. Even though I'm a Toyota guy, I have always liked Ford, and I figured Lincoln was the way to go if I wanted all the features.
UPDATE 5/23/19
Still loving this vehicle. The leather has held up very nicely. It still drives great. Other than the speed sensor issue in my initial review, it’s only been in the shop for oil, tires, and a tune-up. We did have to replace the brakes 6 months ago, but that’s it. We’ve put 40k miles on it since my initial review above.
I only have one complaint... sometimes if the Bluetooth won't connect to my phone, I have to turn the car off and back on to get it connected. I wonder if this is a Lincoln and/or Ford thing because my 2011 Lincoln MKZ does the same thing. That’s it for a complaint.
I’m really liking the drive of Lincoln and hope that it remains reliable because I could see us being a life long Lincoln family.
UPDATE 11/24/20
Being a 12, nearly 13 year old vehicle at this point, we've actually received compliments on having a nice car. I do keep it clean and properly take care of its appearance. I'm still very happy with this vehicle.
5 out of 5 stars
Keeps on keeping on!
Carol Anson, 08/25/2018
2008 Lincoln MKX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
After 10 years and 170,000+ miles, I am still pleased with this car. Very few repairs, very dependable and super comfortable!
4.75 out of 5 stars
Top Notch
dontblink, 08/06/2014
2008 Lincoln MKX 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
After several horrible experiences with European vehicles, I decided to buy domestic again. I dig the clean crisp styling, strong stance, & front grill reminiscent of Lincoln's past. The ride is firm yet comfortable, it handles well, & mileage is decent. The sound system is great. The clutter free instrumentation with retro gauges is pleasing.
The cabin is roomy with plenty of cargo … space. Quality leather seats are comfortable. Fit & finish is top notch inside & out. It could benefit from a rear view backup camera. The silver painted interior plastic looks like silver painted plastic. I really like the MKX, it is safe, stylish, reliable, & comfortable. It will likely be a favorite of ours.
4 out of 5 stars
Good size; comfortable ride
shellygg, 08/01/2018
2008 Lincoln MKX 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
Liked that this is a crossover so you sit up a higher than a car but it is not a huge step up to get in. Comfortable ride that handles well in ice and snow. Not very good gas mileage, but I expected that. Heated driver's seat stopped functioning about 6 months after 4-year warranty ran out and would have been very expensive to repair. Voice recognition of synced phone was spotty across … multiple phones that I had over the years and it sometimes lost my phone-book. Rusted parts on the underside happened more readily than past foreign cars that I owned.
2008 MKX Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $35,840 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $341/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 31.8 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the MKX include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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