2013 Lincoln MKT Gets Updated Look, Adjustable Drive Modes and Suspension: 2011 LA Auto Show

Lincoln’s full-size crossover just got plenty of upgrades for 2013 including Continually Controlled Damping, Lincoln Drive Control, more standard horsepower along with a 1-mpg highway improvement, new interior styling, a new MyLincoln Touch system, upgraded exterior design and new safety and convenience features.

In its mission to make a full-size crossover ride smoothly and handle well, Lincoln integrated Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) in its new 2013 MKT. CCD is available on MKT models with the optional 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine. The adjustable suspension enables the MKT to offer a more confident driving experience regardless of road conditions. By utilizing 46 inputs to feed data to a control unit, the CCD module then calculates the optimal damping force every 2 milliseconds – that’s 500 times per second. On average, large damper force adjustments can occur in just 11 milliseconds.

The 2013 MKT also features three distinct driving modes: Sport, Normal and Comfort, are of which are easy selected using MKT’s new Lincoln Drive Control and shift lever.

Two engines will be offered in the 2013 MKT, a 3.7L V6 FWD with 300-hp and 275 lb-ft of torque or a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 AWD with 355-hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The 3.7L V6 reports 17/25-mpg while the EcoBoost is a comparable 16/22-mpg. Both are mated to six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmissions with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, though each motor has different transmissions.

The new styling on the 2013 MKT highlights Lincoln’s progressive design with a new front grille, bumper and wheels. The 2013 Lincoln MKT is expected to arrive dealers this spring.