Drivers of the 2017 Lincoln MKT FWD with the 3.7L V6 get 19 MPG combined. This isn’t a fuel-sipping hybrid; it’s a large, luxurious crossover often tasked with hauling families and their belongings. The MKT prioritizes comfort and space over efficiency, a trade-off many buyers in this segment willingly make.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the MKT will achieve 16 MPG in city driving and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban environments, where the MKT’s weight and conventional automatic transmission affect mileage. The highway number is more appealing, suggesting that longer trips at steady speeds can yield better fuel consumption. However, aggressive acceleration or consistently exceeding posted speed limits will quickly diminish those gains. These are estimates based on controlled testing; individual driving habits will significantly impact the actual numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lincoln MKT FWD 3.7L is $2,300. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate; individual expenses will fluctuate based on local fuel costs and driving patterns. If you have a longer commute, frequently take road trips, or live in an area with higher gas prices, expect to exceed this annual figure. If you drive less than 15,000 miles annually, your fuel costs will likely be lower.

Real-world expectations

Real-world MPG for the 2017 Lincoln MKT FWD 3.7L is often different from EPA testing. Drivers report figures that fall slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in mixed driving conditions. Expect mileage at the lower end of the range if you frequently experience heavy traffic or drive aggressively. The MKT’s size and weight are factors, and its naturally aspirated V6 needs to work harder to move the vehicle compared to turbocharged engines in some competitors. Consistent highway driving is your best bet for achieving, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA’s 24 MPG rating. If you’re buying used, consider checking out MKT MPG across all years to see if other model years offer better efficiency that might suit your needs.

How it compares

The MKT’s fuel economy puts it in a specific context within its class. For comparison, consider the Acura MDX. The MDX with front-wheel drive typically achieves around 20 MPG combined, a slight edge over the MKT. The Buick Enclave, another popular three-row crossover, delivers similar MPG figures to the MKT, hovering around 18 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. Even vehicles like the Infiniti QX60, with its emphasis on luxury, can sometimes achieve comparable or marginally better fuel economy than the Lincoln, though often with less powerful engine options. These comparisons matter because buyers in this segment are often cross-shopping these vehicles, weighing fuel costs against styling, features, and brand image.

Tips to maximize efficiency

There are steps you can take to improve your gas mileage, even though the MKT prioritizes luxury. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine operates efficiently. A clean air filter allows for optimal airflow, and fresh oil reduces internal friction. Both contribute to improved fuel consumption. Following the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule is especially important for a vehicle with the MKT’s age and mileage.

Tire pressure plays a critical role in fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a few PSI difference can impact your MPG over time. This is especially important for a heavy vehicle like the MKT.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo in the trunk or on the roof increases the MKT’s overall weight, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly. Decluttering the vehicle can incrementally improve MPG, especially during city driving where frequent acceleration and braking occur.

Moderate your driving habits. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions significantly decrease fuel economy. Gradual acceleration and smooth braking allow the engine to operate more efficiently. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. Check out all Lincoln fuel economy data to get a sense of its fuel economy relative to other vehicles in the Lincoln manufacturer lineup.