The first-generation Lincoln MKX was introduced in 2006 for the 2007 model year, marking the luxury brand's entry into the growing mid-size crossover SUV segment. Built on the front-wheel-drive Ford CD3 platform shared with the Ford Edge, the MKX featured a unibody construction, distinctive exterior styling with a bold chrome grille, and a luxury-appointed interior with wood and leather trim. Initially, it was powered by a 3.5-liter Duratec 35 V6 engine producing 265 hp, mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission developed jointly with GM. It came standard with front-wheel drive, while an intelligent all-wheel-drive system was optional. For the 2011 model year, Lincoln introduced a significant mid-cycle refresh featuring the signature 'split-wing' grille design, a fully overhauled dashboard debuting the touch-capacitive MyLincoln Touch infotainment interface, and a more potent 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine delivering 305 hp paired with a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The model was primarily sold across North American and select Middle Eastern markets.