For those deeply invested in the automotive world, the 2009 Lincoln MKS represented a significant moment for the marque. Stepping into the mid-level luxury sedan segment, Lincoln aimed to revitalize its image and attract a new generation of drivers. Beyond the sleek lines and plush interiors, a key element of this modern luxury experience was the “Intelligent Access” system, and with it, the 2009 Lincoln Mks Key Fob. Let’s delve into a comprehensive review of the 2009 Lincoln MKS, focusing on this key technology and the overall vehicle experience.
Alt text: Lincoln MKS 2009 luxury sedan angled view at night with Atlanta skyline in background, showcasing its modern design.
This review is based on a loaner 2009 Lincoln MKS, provided for evaluation purposes. The opinions expressed here are unbiased and reflect an honest assessment of the vehicle.
MKS Overview
Positioned as Lincoln’s mid-size luxury sedan, just below the Town Car, the MKS was designed to compete in a fiercely contested market. Lincoln was actively seeking to refresh its brand appeal, and the MKS was central to this strategy. This model aimed to offer a compelling blend of features and technology to attract a wider audience in the luxury sedan category. Similar to Buick’s revitalization efforts, Lincoln placed significant emphasis on the MKS to inject new energy into the brand.
The 2009 MKS aimed to be a strong contender against established rivals in the entry-to-mid-level luxury sedan class. This review explores whether it successfully achieved that goal.
Pricing and Features
The specific 2009 Lincoln MKS model reviewed had a base price of $39,105, which increased to $45,570 with the inclusion of the Ultimate Package and delivery charges. Notable features included in this vehicle were:
- Microsoft SYNC with integrated navigation
- Dual Panel Moonroof
- THX-II Certified Audio system with 5.1 surround sound
- “Intelligent Access” system with push-button start, controlled by the 2009 Lincoln MKS key fob
- Adaptive HID Headlamps
- Air-conditioned front seats
Adaptive cruise control was also available as an optional upgrade, though not equipped in the test vehicle.
Competitors for the 2009 MKS included luxury sedans like the Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS, Acura RL, Infiniti M, and Volvo S80. While not in the same price bracket as the Audi A8, the MKS was comparable in size.
Exterior Design
For a vehicle intended to rejuvenate the Lincoln brand, the MKS made a positive first impression with its exterior styling. The rear design, in particular, was immediately appealing, bearing a striking resemblance to the Maserati Quattroporte’s rear.
Alt text: Rear view of 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan at night, highlighting taillights and design similarities to Maserati, with Biltmore Hotel in Atlanta as backdrop.
However, the abundance of chrome, particularly in the front grille and window trim, might be considered excessive by some. The large 19-inch wheels (with optional 20-inch wheels available) filled the wheel wells effectively and contributed to the MKS’s strong presence on the road. Lincoln prioritized ride comfort over a low-profile tire look, a sensible decision for a luxury sedan.
Alt text: 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan side profile in daylight, showcasing its overall proportions and wheel design.
The brake system, featuring 12.25-inch front rotors with 2-piston calipers and 12.75-inch rear rotors with single-piston calipers, was visually underwhelming and functionally adequate, but not exceptional in braking performance tests. Upgrading to larger, 4-piston front brakes, similar to Acura’s approach on the RL, could enhance both aesthetics and braking performance.
Alt text: Dual panel moonroof of 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan in daytime, highlighting panoramic glass roof feature.
Adaptive headlights, a feature initially popularized in luxury vehicles like the Lexus RX330, were a welcome addition to the MKS. These headlights pivot with the steering, enhancing visibility around corners, especially at night. Combined with automatic high beams, the adaptive headlights contributed to safer and more relaxed night driving.
Alt text: Rear daytime view of 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan, emphasizing angled taillights and chrome trim reminiscent of Maserati design.
Performance and Handling
Unfortunately, the 2009 Lincoln MKS did not come equipped with the highly anticipated 355 horsepower EcoBoost V6 engine, which was slated for the 2010 model. Instead, the reviewed MKS featured a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 273 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The engine’s sound under full acceleration was described as uninspiring, likened to a hairdryer, suggesting a lack of auditory appeal for a luxury sedan. The absence of a V8 option in the 2009 MKS was also noted as a significant drawback compared to its competitors.
Alt text: Engine bay of 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan in daylight, showing the Ford Duratec 3.7-liter V6 engine.
Weighing over 4,200 pounds, the AWD MKS was on par with the weight of competitors like the Lexus GS and Volvo S80 AWD models. The combination of the engine and transmission resulted in underwhelming performance. The transmission was criticized for sluggish upshifts and jerky downshifts. While the all-wheel-drive system aided in cornering, torque steer was noticeable under hard acceleration.
Handling was described as mediocre, partly due to the vehicle’s weight and high center of gravity. Fuel economy was also on the lower side, with observed city driving figures significantly below the EPA estimate. Performance metrics included a 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 15.5 seconds.
Braking performance was considered adequate but with room for improvement. Ride quality was acceptable for its class, described as firm but comparable to a BMW 545i.
Interior and Technology
Alt text: Aerial night view of 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan interior, showcasing leather seats, dashboard layout and ambient lighting.
Inside, the MKS aimed to impress with “Bridge of Weir” leather seats from Scotland, featuring perforation for heating and cooling. The front seats offered 12-way adjustments, including lumbar support. However, they lacked side bolstering for more secure lateral support during cornering. The cabin was notably quiet at highway speeds due to extensive insulation.
Alt text: Daytime view of 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan gauge cluster, highlighting needle design and typography.
The gauge cluster design was considered disappointing, with outdated typography and excessive chrome trim. In contrast, Lexus gauge clusters were cited as examples of superior design.
Alt text: 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan with doors open in daylight, showing interior spaciousness and door design.
The MKS featured an “Intelligent Access” system with push-button start. This keyless entry system, becoming increasingly common, allowed for door unlocking and ignition without physically using a key, as long as the 2009 Lincoln MKS key fob was present. However, the design of the 2009 Lincoln MKS key fob itself was criticized as clunky and cheap-looking compared to key fobs from brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Acura.
Alt text: Close up of 2009 Lincoln MKS key fob and engine start button, highlighting the key fob’s plastic construction and button design.
Further interior criticisms included a small trunk opening, limited storage compartments, uneven panel gaps, and poorly designed front cupholders. On a positive note, the stitched top dash cover was a premium touch.
The dual-panel moonroof was a standout feature, enhancing the cabin’s spaciousness, especially for rear passengers. Despite interior criticisms, the MKS offered ample space, comfortably accommodating five adults.
Microsoft SYNC and Technology Integration
Alt text: Display screen of 2009 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan showing THX certified audio system logo, highlighting infotainment technology.
The Microsoft SYNC system was a key technological highlight of the 2009 Lincoln MKS. This system integrated navigation, phone, and music functions into a voice-controlled interface. Powered by an ARM 11 processor and Microsoft Auto OS, SYNC aimed to streamline in-car technology.
Beyond SYNC, the MKS boasted a premium THX-II Certified audio system with 16 speakers, a 10-inch subwoofer, and 600 Watts of power. Designed by THX, this system supported 5.1 surround sound and delivered impressive audio quality.
Alt text: 2009 Lincoln MKS Sync voice command menu displayed on screen, illustrating voice control features of the infotainment system.
SYNC could be controlled via touchscreen, center console buttons, or voice commands. While voice control accuracy was generally good, the system’s confirmation screens for most commands were an annoyance.
Alt text: Birdseye view of navigation map on 2009 Lincoln MKS Sync system, demonstrating map detail and route guidance features.
The navigation system was generally effective, with maps stored on a hard drive for quick route calculation. However, a significant limitation was the inability to input destinations or make route changes while the vehicle was in motion for safety reasons. Split-screen display for upcoming turns was a helpful feature. SIRIUS Travel Link integration offered real-time traffic, weather, and fuel price information, although a subscription was required.
Alt text: Detailed navigation map view on 2009 Lincoln MKS Sync system, showing street level details and route information.
Bluetooth phone integration was seamless, with downloaded phonebooks and voice-activated calling. Call quality was excellent. The system could also read text messages aloud and offered pre-set text replies. A unique feature allowed transferring ongoing phone calls to the car’s system via a steering wheel button. SYNC also included an emergency 911 call feature in case of airbag deployment, potentially including GPS location sharing.
Alt text: Pairing iPhone with 2009 Lincoln MKS Sync system, demonstrating smartphone integration capabilities.
For audio, the MKS offered standard radio, a 10GB “jukebox” for storing ripped CDs, and USB/Bluetooth connectivity for external devices. The system displayed track information and integrated with Gracenote database for CD information. While versatile in media playback, the audio visualizer was basic, and equalizer settings were limited to bass and treble adjustments.
Alt text: Radio screen of 2009 Lincoln MKS Sync system, displaying station information and interface layout.
The THX audio system delivered excellent sound quality, with crisp treble and powerful bass, although excessive bass could cause trunk rattling at higher volumes.
Final Verdict
The 2009 Lincoln MKS presents a mixed bag. While performance and some interior elements were lacking, the Microsoft SYNC integration and the overall technology package were strong positives. The “Intelligent Access” system, initiated by the 2009 Lincoln MKS key fob, offered a taste of modern convenience, even if the fob’s design itself was underwhelming.
Comfort: 8.5/10
Technology: 9.0/10
Aesthetics: 7.0/10
Performance: 5.5/10
Value: 8.0/10
The 2010 MKS with the EcoBoost engine promised to address performance concerns. However, for the 2009 model, recommending it widely is challenging. Lincoln should prioritize refining details like the 2009 Lincoln MKS key fob design to truly compete in the luxury segment. The technology is there, but polishing the finer points would elevate the overall MKS experience.
