The 2016 Lincoln MKT Livery AWD with the 3.7L V6 gets 18 MPG combined. This number seems low. To understand this number, consider the MKT Livery and its purpose. This isn’t a vehicle primarily purchased for long trips. It’s a chauffeured vehicle, a black car service mainstay, and a comfortable vehicle built for specific needs where passenger comfort and availability are more important than fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the MKT Livery’s fuel economy at 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the frequent stops of its typical use. The highway number is better, it’s indicative of a vehicle designed for relaxed cruising that is also large, with all-wheel drive, and an older six-speed automatic transmission. This isn’t a lightweight sedan; it’s a substantial vehicle engineered to provide a smooth, quiet ride, and fuel economy is a secondary consideration for many buyers. See MKT MPG across all years to understand how its fuel economy has changed over its production run.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lincoln MKT Livery AWD is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and local fuel prices. Stop-and-go city driving will increase your annual expense, while more highway miles may lower it slightly. The $2,450 is a standardized benchmark, to compare to other vehicles, but individual results will differ.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized rating, but many variables affect fuel economy. The MKT Livery’s all-wheel-drive system provides added safety and traction in bad weather, but it reduces fuel efficiency compared to a front-wheel-drive version. Driving style also matters. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will negatively impact fuel consumption. The MKT Livery often carries passengers and luggage, which adds weight and increases the demand on the engine. Expect the observed MPG to be slightly below the EPA estimates in typical livery service.

How it compares

The MKT Livery’s fuel economy is within the expected range for large, AWD vehicles of its time. A 2016 Cadillac Escalade gets a similar 17 MPG combined with its 6.2L V8, despite offering more power. Even a 2020 Lincoln Aviator with all-wheel drive gets only around 20 MPG combined in real-world testing. A 2016 Chrysler 300C AWD with its 5.7L V8 also gets roughly 19 MPG combined. These comparisons show that the MKT Livery’s fuel consumption is not unusual and that buyers prioritize size, comfort, and capability over MPG. It is important to see all Lincoln fuel economy data when deciding.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when the season changes.

Avoid excessive idling. The MKT Livery is often used while waiting, and it can burn a surprising amount of fuel while idling. Turn off the engine if you anticipate waiting for a while, if it is permitted and safe.

Practice smooth acceleration and braking. Sudden bursts of acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Anticipate traffic conditions and maintain a consistent speed when possible. Gradual acceleration puts less stress on the engine, resulting in better fuel economy.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Ensure that your MKT Livery receives regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups as recommended by Lincoln. A neglected engine will consume more fuel.

Lighten the load. The MKT Livery is designed to carry passengers and luggage, but avoid unnecessary weight. Remove any items from the vehicle that are not essential, as excess weight increases fuel consumption. The less weight the engine has to move, the better your fuel economy will be.