The 2016 Lincoln MKT FWD with the 3.7L V6 gets 19 MPG combined. Nobody buys an MKT solely for its fuel efficiency, they buy it for a smooth, comfortable ride, spacious seating, and the cachet of the Lincoln brand. The MKT buyer prioritizes these attributes and accepts the less-than-stellar fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The official EPA estimates break down to 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the MKT’s weight and the demands of stop-and-go driving. The 3.7L V6 needs to work harder to get this hefty crossover moving from a standstill. The highway number is more respectable and achievable if you resist accelerating too quickly. The MKT is at its best and most fuel-efficient on long, relatively flat stretches of interstate. While not exactly class-leading, the 24 MPG highway figure makes long road trips bearable.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lincoln MKT FWD 3.7L at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with roughly 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The EPA also assumes a national average fuel price when making this calculation. Individual costs will vary depending on local fuel prices and driving habits, but $2,300 provides a useful point of comparison when considering which vehicle is right for you.

Real-world expectations

Don’t be surprised if your real-world fuel economy falls short of the EPA estimates, especially in city driving. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and extended idling will all negatively impact your MPG.

On the highway, maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden bursts of acceleration will help you get closer to the advertised 24 MPG. Regularly check your tire pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel efficiency. The MKT’s large size and weight make it particularly sensitive to driving style and road conditions.

How it compares

The 2016 Lincoln MKT FWD 3.7L lags behind in fuel economy compared to other vehicles in its class. For example, the Acura MDX (FWD) delivers an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Infiniti QX60, another spacious crossover, manages 21 MPG city and 27 MPG highway in FWD trim. These competitors offer different driving experiences and styling, but if fuel economy is a primary concern, they are worth considering. You can compare MKT MPG across all years to see which one fits your specific need best. The AWD variant of the 2016 MKT delivers even lower MPG returns.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is an important factor. Follow Lincoln’s recommended maintenance schedule for your MKT, which includes regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. The MKT’s 3.7L V6 is responsive enough without needing to be pushed hard. Gentle acceleration and smooth braking will help you conserve fuel and extend the life of your brake pads.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, significantly impacting fuel economy, especially in city driving scenarios.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel efficiency. This is especially beneficial on long trips, where you can maintain a consistent speed and let the system optimize fuel consumption.

Consider the weight you are carrying. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle to reduce weight and improve fuel economy. The less weight the engine has to move, the more efficiently it operates. Be aware of roof racks and carriers too, which add aerodynamic drag.

For those seeking alternative options, you can find all Lincoln fuel economy data on our website to compare different models and years.