2015 Lincoln MKX

Lincoln is Ford’s luxury brand, and most Lincoln models are fancier, quieter versions of existing Ford SUVs. The Lincoln Navigator, for example, is based on the Ford Expedition, and the Lincoln Corsair is based on the Ford Escape. Some models are available as hybrids. Lincoln SUVs tend to come with standard leather seating surfaces, large screens, and sound deadening. That interior quality paired with lively powertrains have earned some models Consumer Reports’ recommendation. Lincoln stopped building sedans when it discontinued the Continental and MKZ in 2020. As a brand, for new and used car reliability, road-test scores, and owner satisfaction ratings, Lincoln tends to be average.

The 2011 redesign spiffed things up a bit, but the enhancements didn't push it into the realm of competiveness in the class. With that said, the Lincoln does have an absorbent ride, the engine delivers plenty of power, and the cabin is plush and neatly finished. But the touch-sensitive buttons make adjusting the climate, audio, and other functions a distracting and tedious nuisance.