The 2018 Lincoln MKT FWD with the 3.7L V6 gets 19 MPG combined, which isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards. However, efficiency isn’t the primary reason people buy this vehicle. They buy it for its ample passenger space, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. Often used as livery vehicles or family haulers that prioritize space over sportiness, the MKT’s fuel consumption is a trade-off many owners willingly accept.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Lincoln MKT FWD 3.7L V6 earns an EPA-estimated 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions often endured by livery services and families navigating urban environments. The highway MPG, while seemingly respectable, is achieved under ideal conditions, and real-world figures can easily dip lower with a loaded vehicle or spirited driving. The 6-speed automatic transmission optimizes fuel efficiency as best as it can, but its primary focus is on delivering smooth, predictable shifts rather than aggressive fuel saving measures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Lincoln MKT FWD 3.7L V6 is $2,300. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the specific condition of your vehicle. A driver who primarily uses the MKT for short trips in heavy traffic will likely exceed this figure, while someone who does mostly highway driving might see slightly lower costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Drivers should expect the MKT’s actual MPG to fluctuate based on factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even the type of gasoline used. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and prolonged idling will all negatively impact fuel efficiency.

Properly maintaining the vehicle, including regular tire inflation and oil changes, is crucial to achieving the best possible MPG. Some owners might achieve numbers slightly better than the EPA estimates under ideal circumstances, but many will find themselves closer to the 19 MPG combined figure or even slightly below it, especially in mixed driving.

How it compares

The 2018 Lincoln MKT’s fuel economy isn’t exceptional compared to its competitors. The Acura MDX SH-AWD, for example, achieves around 19 MPG combined with its V6 engine, providing comparable space and luxury. The Infiniti QX60, known for its comfortable ride, gets an estimated 21 MPG combined. Even the larger Buick Enclave manages around 20 MPG combined, showing advancements in engine technology that some manufacturers have embraced more aggressively.

For those prioritizing efficiency above all else, these alternatives might be better. However, MKT buyers often value styling and interior appointments more than small differences in fuel consumption. You can view MKT MPG across all years to get a sense of how this vehicle’s economy stands over its production run.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow to maintain momentum. The MKT is a large vehicle, and frequent stops and starts require more energy to get it moving. Slowing down gradually rather than braking hard conserves fuel and reduces wear on the brakes.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Correct tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the tire placard, typically located on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you anticipate a long wait, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine uses less fuel than idling for more than a minute.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary weight in your MKT reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items that aren’t needed for your current trip. This applies to both cargo and passengers. Carpooling, while beneficial in other ways, can slightly reduce individual fuel economy.

Service your vehicle regularly. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. For all Lincoln fuel economy data, proper care can lead to a meaningful difference in MPG over time.