DOUBLE DIPPING; Lincoln pumps up 2010 MKS, adds all-new 2010 MKT.

Byline: BOB GRITZINGER

Lincoln's lineup improves twofold this summer with the addition of a more powerful second-year 2010 MKS sedan and the all-new 2010 MKT crossover.

Both vehicles get the optional Ford EcoBoost 3.5-liter twin-turbo engine, which delivers 355 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. For the MKS, that's a vast improve-ment over the 273-hp, 270-lb-ft naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 that powered the '09 model. Although that V6 packed nearly the same punch as the 3.9-liter V8 in the 2006 Lincoln LS, most critics found the new flagship Lincoln lacking in that area.

At the time, Lincoln promised more power within a year, and the EcoBoost-equipped model delivers, with a strong-pulling turbo engine and sportier suspension-tuning upgrades that push it closer to the upcoming Ford Taurus SHO in power and handling. EcoBoost models also get steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the six-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, electric power steering and a 2.77:1 final drive ratio borrowed from the Taurus SHO. The base model comes with the same 3.7-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, in front-or all-wheel drive.

An optional appearance package due late this year on EcoBoost models features a red S in the decklid badge, along with special exterior and interior trims and 20-inch chrome wheels.

Hammering the twin-turbo MKS and MKT around Ford's Michigan Proving Grounds provided ample opportunity to sample the wares. Power comes on early, and rather than following a typical torque curve, it jumps straight to a maximum torque plateau at 1,500 rpm and stays there across the range to 5,250 rpm. As long as the transmission kicks down to the right gear, power is instant, allowing quick passing and merging leaps in 20-mph ...