The 2016 Lincoln MKX AWD with its 3.7L V6 gets 19 MPG combined. In the mid-size luxury crossover segment, offering all-wheel drive and focused on quiet comfort, it’s a number that suits buyers who want a smooth ride and many features over pure fuel efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle for hypermiling; it’s designed to surround its occupants in leather and technology while providing confident all-weather traction.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving where the MKX’s 3.7L V6 and six-speed automatic transmission work to overcome the vehicle’s weight. Highway driving allows the engine to run more easily, delivering slightly better fuel economy. Pushing the MKX at higher speeds will reduce those gains, as the engine works harder. These figures represent what many MKX drivers will experience daily.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lincoln MKX AWD 3.7L is $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and uses a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving, the fuel you use, and gasoline prices in your area. This benchmark helps compare total ownership costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Driving style, terrain, and temperature all impact fuel consumption. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and prolonged idling will decrease MPG. Hilly terrain strains the engine. Smooth, consistent driving on flat surfaces helps you get closer to the EPA estimates. Many owners of vehicles in this class accept that the luxury features and driving affect efficiency ratings.

How it compares

The MKX’s fuel economy is competitive but not a leader in its class. The Lexus RX 350 AWD achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined. The Acura MDX SH-AWD manages 21 MPG combined. Buyers drawn to European brands may consider the Volvo XC60 T6 AWD, which offers a similar 20 MPG combined. These small differences add up, especially for those who drive a lot. For all Lincoln fuel economy data, check out the brand comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The simplest way to boost fuel economy in your MKX is to drive more smoothly. Avoid accelerating quickly and braking hard. Watch traffic and keep a consistent speed. This vehicle is most efficient when cruising comfortably.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level on the sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Too many drivers overlook this step, but it is important.

Remove weight from the vehicle. Extra weight strains the engine, decreasing fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need from the trunk and rear seats. Every pound counts, especially considering the MKX’s weight already.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. This helps to eliminate sudden acceleration and braking, enabling the powertrain to optimize its fuel usage.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Neglecting maintenance can decrease performance and reduce fuel economy. You can also review the MKX MPG across all years to see how it has evolved.