Lincoln reworks, quiets MKX crossover to aim at Lexus, Audi buyers

Lincoln’s MKX crossover takes aim at Audi, Lexus

DETROIT — Ford Motor Co.’s Lincoln brand will take another run at the top luxury midsize crossover vehicles with its redesigned five-seat 2011 MKX.

The vehicle, an upgraded version of the Ford Edge, gets a new 3.7-liter, 305-horsepower V-6, a more luxurious interior and new exterior styling.

Highway fuel economy stays the same at 25 mpg, even though the new engine replaces a 3.5-liter V-6 with 265 horsepower.

With the new vehicle, Lincoln is aiming at Germany’s Audi Q5 and the RX 350 from Japan’s Lexus.

Ford says the new MXK will be quieter than the competitors, with wide use of sound-absorbing materials in the interior and wind noise reductions from thicker windshield and front-door glass.

The MKX is due in showrooms in the summer. Pricing was not announced.