The 2017 Lincoln MKT Limo AWD with the 3.5L V6 gets 15 MPG combined. To be clear, buyers of this stretched limousine probably aren’t prioritizing fuel efficiency. They want space, presence, and passenger comfort. The MKT Limo’s dismal fuel economy is simply the cost of admission. This isn’t a discreet fuel-sipping sedan; it’s a statement, a mobile boardroom, and a vehicle designed for specific (and lucrative) purposes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the MKT Limo at 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, frequent idling, and the sheer weight of the vehicle constantly fighting inertia. Remember, it’s carrying more steel and glass than a standard MKT. The highway figure, while better, still lags behind even less luxurious full-size sedans. The 3.5L V6 works hard to move this beast, and all-wheel drive, while providing excellent traction in all conditions, adds parasitic losses to the drivetrain, reducing fuel economy. The six-speed automatic transmission is durable and shifts smoothly, but its relatively limited number of gears compared to modern eight- or ten-speed units contributes to the MKT Limo’s thirst.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lincoln MKT Limo AWD at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. If the vehicle is used more extensively, as is typical with livery services or executive transport, this figure will likely be substantially higher. If fuel prices increase, expect to spend even more. The annual fuel cost might seem high, but for those relying on this limo for income, the cost is factored into the overall profitability of their business. Think of it as the cost of doing business.

Real-world expectations

Achieving the EPA’s figures in the real world might be difficult to achieve consistently. The MKT Limo, especially in an urban environment, is often subjected to short trips, heavy traffic, and extended periods of idling while waiting for passengers. Aggressive acceleration and braking, sometimes necessary to maintain pace in traffic, will also significantly impact fuel consumption. While hypermiling techniques can yield small improvements, they are unlikely to be a priority for professional drivers who are focused on passenger comfort and timely arrivals. The all-wheel-drive system, while beneficial for safety and traction, contributes to the lower MPG as it constantly sends power to all four wheels.

How it compares

The 2017 Lincoln MKT Limo’s fuel economy is predictably poor when viewed against the limousine segment. Few limousines prioritize fuel efficiency, but comparing it to more mainstream vehicles illustrates the stark difference. A 2017 Cadillac Escalade 2WD, a popular choice for luxury transportation, manages around 17 MPG combined with its 6.2L V8. Even a large SUV like the 2017 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD achieves around 19 MPG combined with its 5.3L V8. The MKT Limo gives up significant MPG even compared to these. For those interested in all Lincoln fuel economy data, it’s clear other vehicles in the lineup offer far better efficiency. These comparisons highlight that buyers aren’t cross-shopping a limo and a standard SUV; they’re seeking the unique qualities of a purpose-built limousine at the cost of less gas.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The MKT Limo isn’t designed for efficiency, but some steps can help drivers minimize fuel consumption. Gentle acceleration is key. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, as these actions consume significantly more fuel than gradual increases in speed. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible to conserve fuel.

Regular maintenance is essential. Ensure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, so follow the recommended service schedule for MKT MPG across all years and address any mechanical issues promptly.

Minimize idling time. Restarting an engine consumes less fuel than idling for extended periods. If you anticipate waiting for more than a minute, turn off the engine to save fuel. This is especially important when waiting for passengers at airports or other pick-up locations.

Removing unnecessary weight helps. Limousines often carry extra equipment or supplies. Only essential items should be onboard. Every extra pound adds to the vehicle’s load, increasing fuel consumption. Removing unnecessary items will help the engine run more efficiently and save a little on gas.