LOOKS

The old MKX looked like … well, a vehicle from a decade ago. That most likely contributed to its sales struggles as competitors with fresher and more upgraded looks got buyers’ attention.

For the 2016 model, the exterior looks cleaner and more attractive, and the longer and wider build mean you’re going to have more room inside to stretch your feet.

THe MKX features push-button shift keys on the dash, which makes for a cleaner interior, but takes some getting used to if you’re used to a standard shifter.

Storage room is equal or better than the competition, and when you lower the back seats you can fit some heavy artillery inside. WIth a full house in front and back, all five inhabitants of the vehicle will feel very comfortable -- a critical test of a vehicle in this class, as far too often the back seat comfort level is lacking.

Interior materials aren’t the absolute best quality I’ve seen on a luxury vehicle, but they’re not far off -- you definitely can tell this is a Lincoln SUV and not a Ford SUV.

ENGINE, HORSEPOWER

One of the best options in the new MKX is that you can upgrade to a twin-turbo, 2.7-liter, V6 Ecoboost engine; which offers 335 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. A non-turbo engine is standard, and the 3.7-liter V6 brings 303 hp and 278 lb.-ft. of torque.

Acceleration is impressive for the segment; and this is an engine that will have you enjoying your time in the vehicle. Road noise stays outside and your ride is nice and quiet.

Overall I found the MKX to offer a smooth ride and handling overall, it reacts well for a vehicle of this size; but is not meant for off-roading. You can opt for all-wheel-drive (but FWD is standard). Towing tops out at 3,500 lbs.

TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

To compete in this segment, the tech options need to be top-notch, even on base models.

Accordingly, the MKX will always come with: keyless start/entry, LED taillights, remote start, rear parking sensors, leatherette upholstery, leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power-folding second row seats, rearview camera, the MyLincoln Touch infotainment system and its 8-inch touchscreen, 10-speaker audio system, two USB ports and more.

Moving up to higher trim levels will get you things like:
-- Adaptive cruise control
-- Power folding side mirrors
-- Leather upholstery
-- Wood trim on the interior
-- Navigation system
-- Blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert

Massaging seats are also offered, if you’re feeling decadent.

My experience with the infotainment system was positive, as it followed Ford/Lincoln’s familiar setup and responded well to commands by both touch and voice.

MPG
Official numbers on the MKX I tested were 17 city/24 highway/19 combined. These numbers beat some of its luxury competitors, but fall short against others. Numbers improve slightly if you lose all-wheel drive and the turbo engine.

PRICE
The 2016 Lincoln MKX starts under $40K, but my test vehicle was decked out and ended up at $58,740. This is part of the issue Lincoln is facing; While they want to step up and battle the bigger names in luxury rides, they often price themselves too close to these other brands to make a significant jump in sales. Sometimes the math works, as some of its priciest competitors offer similar vehicles for $10,000 to $20,000 higher, but on others it’s in the same ballpark -- giving the Lincoln one less competitive advantage.

BOTTOM LINE

Lincoln has a long hill to climb in the luxury vehicle segment, but with refreshes like the 2016 MKX it’s making some good headway in that battle. Compared to the previous version it’s like night and day, and it can be legitimately compared to its adversaries both in the U.S. and abroad as a solid option if you’re in the market for a luxury SUV.

Of course, some people will still buy Mercedes and Porsche and Cadillac and Audi vehicles if that’s their preference; but Lincoln has a real chance to convince some buyers to switch teams with this model.

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Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.