2019 LINCOLN MKX SPY SHOTS AND CHANGES: THE SUV GETS CONTINENTAL’S GRILLE AND A NEW ENGINE

Ford’s luxury division is working hard to keep up the pace with the biggest rivals, so it’s not strange at all why they are constantly improving their lineup. Aside they are planning to introduce the new generation of the Navigator and the updated MKC anytime soon, they are also working on the mid-size SUV. We managed to catch a prototype of the 2019 Lincoln MKX a few days ago, yet it’s not quite clear whether it’s going to be introduced as the new generation model or just as the heavily updated SUV. Either way, the crossover is definitely getting a range of pretty important changes.

Styling-wise, the testing vehicle hides plenty of changes beneath the camo. Still, they are mostly cosmetic and grouped in the front end. Although we can see, we are pretty sure that the 2019 MKX hides a new Continental grille and significantly different headlights. Plus, the bumper appears to be more massive and with somewhat larger air intakes. Around back, Lincoln’s mid-size crossover doesn’t reveal anything due to camouflage, but it’s quite clear that there will be at least a pair of new taillights and a redesigned rear bumper.

In contrast to the styling changes which are still telltale, it’s quite clear what’s going to happen under the hood of the 2019 Lincoln MKX. The SUV will definitely keep it’s 2.7-liter Ecoboost unchanged. However, the 3.7-liter unit might be switched with a smaller, yet more powerful option. According to the latest rumors, the carmaker plans to add a 2.3-liter Ecoboost mill. The engine is recently updated, so we know it’s capable to develop 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of twist. The performance will be additionally boosted with a new nine-speed transmission.

Of course, the 2019 Lincoln MKX will get redesigned interior and likely better equipment, but we have nothing on that at the moment. Still, since the crossover won’t be introduced before next January (yes, it’s scheduled for the 2018 NAIAS), we should find out more details about it.