A few observations:
The MKS was AWD. The "competitors" were RWD. Why no Audi A6? A Maserati is no Ferrari. BMW smoked the field--sweet.

Finally, someone with a clear head.  I agree totally emdoc2003.  The whining from all the panty waists was deafening. This was just a great demonstration of a domestic car brand having something to strut about so they are.  Good for them.  And I imagine they left the Caddy out cause the test was introduced as a domestic V6 vs Euro V8s.  And also, the Euros they went up against were far more expensive.  It shows Lincoln as a great value for those who don't want to spend the big $.

If you read the last page commentary in this month's Automobile magazine, you will realize that the idea was proposed by Lincoln and the magazines simply took them up on their boast.  Lincoln admits to capitalizing on the minimal lose of power in their turbo powerplant versus the normally aspirated V8s present.  Take it for what it is worth and enjoy the entertainment.  It does not mean that someone will or should necessarily cross shop among these five vehicles so don't get your panties in a bind.  I have owned several BMW M series vehicles as well as porsche vehicles over the years and say that's great that a domestic manufacturer is trying and is proud of their vehicle.  Same for the Cadillac CTS-V though it did not compete for obvious reasons - Lincoln setting the stage for the event.

I enjoyed the test drive comparison and the unprecedented dual magazine contribution to make this happen. I have to admit that I am surprised that the Lincoln came in 2nd, if it weren't for the biased program towards how the Lincoln compares to the competition from around the world.  But... what about the domestic competition (and I think you know whom I about to put on the table...) i.e. the Cadillac CST-V?  Remember the Neurenburgh track sports luxury sedan world speed record?

P.S. Honorable mention to the sound of the Maserati power plant.

Testing turbo vs non turbo at that height is bias.  I don't think i will read test done by automobile and motortrend anymore.