The front-wheel drive MKT equipped with Ford's 3.7-liter V-6, which makes 268 horsepower, will begin at $44,995 (including destination charges). Ford is attempting to position the MKT as a technology leader, so the features list is tech-heavy. Standard features include a six-speed transmission with paddle shifters, an eight-inch touch screen for audio and HVAC controls, a rear view camera, a 20-gigabyte hard drive for music storage, push-button start, a keyless entry keypad, adaptive HID headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a reverse-sensing parking system, adjustable pedals, ambient lighting, and a panoramic roof. Add all-wheel drive, and the price gets bumped to $46,990.
Opt for the MKT with Ford's new 355-horsepower direct-injection twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6, and you'll be forking over $49,995. That price includes all-wheel drive (front-wheel drive is not an option with the EcoBoost V-6), 20-inch wheels, and all the options from the base MKT.
On either trim, an Elite Package can be added for $5000. The Elite Package equips the MKT with adaptive cruise control, collision warning with brake support, a blind spot information system, cross traffic alert, voice-activated navigation, and a power-opening panoramic roof. Stand alone options include active park assist for EcoBoost models, an entertainment system with dual headrest mounted screens, second row heated and cooled seats with power lumbar, and a second row console-mounted refrigerator.
A fully loaded MKT, with all-wheel drive, the EcoBoost engine, and the Elite Package, costs about $55,000. This puts the MKT between a top-level Acura MDX, which goes for just under $50,000 after destination charges, and the 4.2-liter V-8 Audi Q7, which can run upwards of $67,000 with destination charges. Only time will tell if the MKT has been positioned smartly enough to eat market share from its competitors, or if it will simply become the forgotten middle child.