Dayton Daily News

Let's get this out in the open up front: The all-new 2009 Lincoln MKS is a sedan, so don't confuse it with the MKZ (a smaller sedan) or the MKX (a crossover-utility vehicle).

Lincoln's name game might be getting more complicated, but its cars are easy to appreciate. The MKS, which is based on the same platform as the Ford Taurus, is 17 feet of stylistic spaciousness. No, it's not the old-school Town Car with its soft, cushiony ride. The MKS has a sportiness about it, both in appearance and handling. The ride is firmer, the lines sleeker and yet it is quite maneuverable even in tight areas.

There is still plenty of interior space, both in the cabin where five passengers have adequate room, and in the trunk where there is 18.7 cubic feet of space.

The MKS is offered in either a front-wheel drive version that we drove for $37,665 or all-wheel drive for about two grand more. The only engine is a 273-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 and it comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability.

Comfortable leather upholstery awaits riders and front-seat passengers benefit from 12-way power bucket seats with heating and cooling. Back-seat riders have heated seats.

Ford provides Microsoft's Sync Entertainment System as standard and it includes audio and cell phone controls. The optional voice-activated navigation system can is another smooth-working device. A backup camera projects an image on the navigation screen and comes with guide lines, making your retreat look like you are on a runway.

A simpler feature but just as appreciated is the capless fuel tank. No more leaving the cap behind as the gas station.

By David Mikesell, Wheels contributor