Owners of the 2016 Lincoln MKS AWD with the 3.7L V6 get 19 MPG combined. This number might seem disappointing in a world of hybrid sedans and efficient crossovers. However, the MKS wasn’t aiming for Prius-like economy. It was designed to deliver a comfortable, spacious, and confident driving experience with all-weather capability, a mission that required compromises in fuel efficiency. Understanding these inherent tradeoffs is key to appreciating this particular Lincoln’s place in the automotive landscape.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 MKS AWD break down to 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, with frequent acceleration and braking using more fuel. The 24 MPG highway rating suggests that the MKS is relatively efficient during steady-state cruising. This difference highlights a crucial aspect of the MKS’s fuel economy: it performs best when allowed to stretch its legs on longer journeys where the smooth six-speed automatic transmission can settle into its most efficient gear. Frequent short trips around town will invariably lead to lower overall MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA’s annual fuel cost estimate for the 2016 Lincoln MKS AWD is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. It provides a useful benchmark for comparing the MKS’s running costs against other vehicles. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. Aggressive driving and premium fuel will increase expenses, while a gentler foot and lower fuel prices will reduce them.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2016 MKS AWD can vary considerably. Drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and minimize idling are likely to see figures closer to the EPA estimates. Those who frequently drive fast, or spend considerable time in heavy traffic, may find their MPG falling below 17 in the city and struggling to reach 24 on the highway. Terrain also plays a role. Hilly or mountainous areas will inevitably demand more fuel than flat, even roads. The AWD system itself, while beneficial for traction, adds weight and drivetrain friction, further impacting fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to its contemporaries, the 2016 Lincoln MKS AWD holds its own, though it’s not a fuel-sipping champion. Direct competitors like the Buick LaCrosse with AWD and the 3.6L V6 achieved similar fuel economy numbers, around 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. Vehicles slightly smaller, like the Acura TLX with SH-AWD and the 3.5L V6 (21 MPG combined), demonstrated a tangible advantage in efficiency. However, downsizing to achieve slightly better mileage often means sacrificing the MKS’s generous interior space. For drivers prioritizing absolute fuel economy in this class of vehicle, considering a Lexus ES 300h hybrid (40 MPG combined) would be the obvious choice, but the ES doesn’t offer AWD or the same level of straight-line performance that the MKS delivers. All all Lincoln fuel economy data is available online, including detailed MKS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the 2016 MKS AWD. The 3.7L V6 delivers ample power, but using that power frequently will have a noticeable impact on your MPG. Creating a habit of smooth, gradual acceleration will minimize fuel consumption, particularly in city driving.

Driving at a consistent speed on the highway also improves efficiency. Using cruise control on long trips helps maintain a steady pace, avoiding unnecessary fluctuations in speed that can waste fuel. Avoiding aggressive lane changes and sudden braking are other ways to keep fuel consumption to a minimum on the highway.

Proper tire inflation is often overlooked, but it plays a significant role in fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels specified on the tire placard. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burning more fuel.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods, such as waiting in a parking lot or at a long traffic light, wastes fuel unnecessarily. If you anticipate a prolonged wait, consider turning off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so the small inconvenience is worth the fuel savings.

Regular maintenance ensures optimal engine performance, which translates directly to better fuel economy. Following Lincoln’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements can help keep the engine running efficiently and prevent fuel-wasting problems from developing over time.