Overview & Reviews

Associated more with cars driven by your grandmother or a New York chauffeur, Lincoln has struggled in recent years to earn a more prestigious image. One of the most important cars to establishing a new course is the Lincoln MKZ, the brand's representative in the ultra-competitive entry-level luxury sedan category.

The first-generation MKZ wasn't especially successful in its mission, as there was little differentiation between the MKZ and the Ford Fusion upon which it was based. However, the second-generation MKZ represents another chance. Though still mechanically based on the Fusion, there are substantially more visual and mechanical delineations between the two. Unlike before, you'd be hard-pressed to tell they're related. More importantly, though, the new Lincoln MKZ is a far more appealing luxury sedan that can legitimately be considered alongside established players.

Current Lincoln MKZ
The Lincoln MKZ is completely redesigned for 2013. It's a car that's going to be hard to miss on the road, as the exterior features a boldly styled rear end and a new look for the Lincoln corporate grille. The cabin is also now suitably upscale for this class of car and adapts Lincoln/Ford's latest electronics controls. Under the skin reside new engines and mechanical underpinnings similar to those in the equally new Ford Fusion.

As is the case with an increasing number of other vehicles in its class, the MKZ's standard engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder. It produces a very healthy 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Optional is a 3.7-liter V6 good for 300 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines feature competitive power and fuel economy for the class. They also both come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is optional. The MKZ Hybrid gets Ford's latest gasoline-electric powertrain with 188 combined hp and fuel economy in the mid-40 range.

There is no shortage of equipment, with items like adaptive suspension, keyless ignition/entry, leather upholstery, an 11-speaker sound system and the MyLincoln Touch suite of electronics interfaces gracing the standard features list. High-tech options include a lane-keeping system, a collision warning system, rear seatbelt airbags, adaptive cruise control, an automatic parallel parking system and an enormous panoramic roof that essentially retracts its glass panel atop the rear window.

There's no question that Lincoln has packed on a lot of kit for its newest MKZ. But the end result is a little disappointing. You can still get most of those high-end features on the Fusion, for instance, and for a price that's thousands of dollars cheaper. Placed in comparison with other entry-level luxury sedans, the MKZ also suffers from its finicky MyLincoln Touch electronics interface, underwhelming interior quality and more confining seating.

Overall, the MKZ has some nice qualities, and we like the effort put forth to make it more distinctive than in years past. But shoppers in search of a top entry-level luxury sedan should also take a look at other choices such as the Acura TL, Lexus ES 350 and Volvo S60 before going with this newest Lincoln.

Used Lincoln MKZ Models
The previous Lincoln MKZ was sold from 2007-'12. (Technically, the car debuted for 2006 but was called the Zephyr for that first year.) Like the current MKZ, the first-generation MKZ was mechanically similar to the Ford Fusion of its time period, but there was substantially less differentiation between the two cars. Although the Lincoln had unique front and rear ends, in profile they appeared to be carbon copies of each other. Passenger space was no different, and both felt very similar behind the wheel.

It's important to note that the MKZ received a significant refresh for 2010. Cars produced before then can be identified by their more restrained, squared-off grille. The cabin featured a retro-inspired design consisting of an upright dash, sharp angles and a large horizontal strip of wood. Unfortunately, the quality of materials was barely better than that of the Fusion, and the various buttons and knobs were no different from those found in a Ford.

Under the hood, these MKZ models came with the same 3.0-liter V6 found in the Fusion that produced 221 hp and 205 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission were standard, while all-wheel drive was an option for all but '07. That first-year MKZ was also not available with rear parking sensors or the Sync electronics interface. Stability control was also unavailable until '09, which was a glaring omission in the luxury segment.

In general we would not recommend the MKZ in these early years. We don't think the changes made for 2010 were enough to make it a compelling alternate to Audis or BMWs, even though the MKZ was indeed greatly improved.

For that 2010 update, Lincoln ditched the retro feel for a more contemporary approach. The materials were improved, the myriad buttons and knobs were now unique to Lincoln and the number of standard features increased. The exterior transformation was less significant, but it did adopt the more dramatic waterfall grille and bolder headlights inspired by other Lincoln models at the time.

Under the hood, the MKZ received a new 3.5-liter V6 that produced 263 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque. Once again, a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive were standard, with all-wheel drive an option. This powertrain was shared with the special Fusion Sport model, but now it at least produced sufficient power for the class.

Also new was a Sport Appearance package, which despite the name actually provided a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch alloy wheels that made the MKZ surprisingly fun to drive. The ride was a bit firm, though, so most consumers will likely prefer the more comfortable standard setup that still provides fairly nimble handling.

For 2011, the MKZ Hybrid debuted. This, not surprisingly, applied the MKZ's styling and cabin to the Ford Fusion Hybrid powertrain. A combination of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, electric motor and battery pack produced a total of 191 hp and returned 39 mpg combined. That made it the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan of the time.

In total, a used Lincoln MKZ produced between 2010 and 2012 will get you a lot of equipment for the money and a car that's surprisingly fun to drive despite the reputation of its brand. However, most other luxury sedans are still more desirable overall, and a loaded Ford Fusion will bring with it much of the same attributes for even less money.

User Reviews:

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  Your Dream is now My Reality - 2014 Lincoln MKZ
  By mrzephyr - April 10 - 8:35 am

  Ford, and now Lincoln Motor Company will never admit it but they now offer us vehicles that drive themselves. Between the available Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assistance I have in my 2013 103A Zephyr, Im driving with more confidence than ever. My wife and I took delivery today, we chose the Ecoboost in a FWD as we have quite the commute. She had three stipulations: Has to have the BLISS, Rear Camera and Rear Sensors that I currently have in my Fusion. I can never live without them, she stated. My only stip was the Adaptive Cruise because of our inconsistent traffic in the metro area, I easily get frustrated with the stop, start, increase speed, CONTINUED under Favorite features:

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  Lincoln MKZ - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By harry bolsonia - April 9 - 2:43 am

  I am 48 and have finally found a car that combines my youth filled desire to have a sports car with the luxury features and comfort I deserve and have earned. I honestly cannot think of one thing I dislike about this vehicle. It is priced right, I get good value, the quality is there and it is freakin awesome to drive. The only shread of issue is in the blind spots in the side mirrors and I cannot honestly tell you whether it is me or in the design. Otherwise, especially if you get an A plan, this car is the best value around.

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  Best Ever - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By DAVE - April 8 - 7:10 pm

  This is simply the best car Ive ever owned - and Ive owned many. I just got out of an 04 Lincoln LS, which was great. I wasnt pleased that Lincoln stopped making them and decided to shop the field. I test drove many. I went with the MKZ and could not be happier. There is really no comparison. There is nothing that comes close to the MKZ at this price point. If youre even slightly considering the MKZ, dont hesitate. If not, you should. You will be shocked at how great this car is. By far the nicest, most comfortable, quietest ride Ive had in over 30 years of driving.

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  This is a wonderful vehicle! - 2017 Lincoln MKZ
  By Henrietta Gaudzels - April 7 - 1:05 pm

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  Underappreciated American Gem - 2009 Lincoln MKZ
  By Fred - March 31 - 10:26 am

  I bought an MKZ, after considering the Lexus GS350, MB C-300, and Infiniti M35. I really wanted to like the "cooler" Infiniti or Lexus, but the quality of their ride did not match the MKZs. While not glamorous, the MKZs looks are quite good, the Nav and Sync systems well thought out (confusing at first; I finally got my Palm Treo to sync, with minor bug.) You definitely get a lot for the money! It handles very well, almost as good as the GS350 (and better than the ES, IMHO). The Satellite radio is terrific. A quality issue with the windshield, that may require replacement. But overall I am very pleased with my purchase.

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  Drove a Zephyr bought an MKZ - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By Michael - March 28 - 7:26 am

  Excellent car. The 3.5 L engine really stands out from the previous 3.0 L in the Zephyr (which I bought one used for my Mother). Fuel economy is still down from what I would expect, but this car blows away the competition for the price. I love the light tan interior and light colored wood. I was surprised that the moon roof, when closed, doesnt add interior noise as I feared it would. I have the THX-II radio in this car and although it sounds very good, I am disappointed in the bass level, especially with two 6 X 9" "sub- woofers" with that spacious trunk as an enclosure. The bass is just not there as it is on the regular standard radio! Rock and roll requires some thumping bass!

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  Nice, so far - 2013 Lincoln MKZ
  By lanez - March 14 - 1:04 pm

  First luxury car I have bought new and I test drove a lot before buying, being a hybrid was my selling point to my wife. Very quiet and comfortable car, could not think about not getting the big sunroof in the MKZ. My son describes the lighting on the car as "sick", led headlights better than xenon. Ambient interior lighting puts a soft glow in your choice of eight colors, the entire cabin is lighted. Could not get the 45mph in western Pennsylvania but did get 40 mpg, thinking about traveling to Ohio just to test it. Compare to the CTS and you will not believe what Ford has done. 42k for the Caddy and you cant plug in your iPhone???? MKZ is a champ, so far.

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  Not the comeback car I hoped for - 2014 Lincoln MKZ
  By royals - March 7 - 12:00 am

  I havent owned a Ford product since 1984 (to me this is more Ford than Lincoln) and have owned no American vehicles since 1996. I have been dying to come back to American cars and this was to have been the triumphant return for me. While I was wowed by the exterior design, it stops for me there. I am 6ft tall and mid fifties. I think the new average buyers age. I bump my head every time I get in the car (roof too short). Lumbar support is poor, quality of the leather interior is not plush and comfortable (what I consider luxury is a plush interior) and I have never once gotten 40 mpg much less higher. I do not drive over 70 on the highway and am definitely not a speeder.

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  Great Car - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By D French - March 6 - 5:40 pm

  Two weeks and this is a great car. Great features and nicely priced. Commute every day and am maintaining 22.5 mpg. Make sure you check out th e"standard" features - early 08s do not come with Microsoft Sync, regardless of what the Lincoln website and marketing materials say.

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  Rivals the BMW 525i - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By Geniphre - February 26 - 12:13 am

  I just got the MKZ and I have an 2004 BMW 525i. You would have to be a fool to purchase anything but the MKZ. I put the 2 cars side by side, they look the same. The standard equipment alone, makes the BMW look striped. The biggie its $20,000 CHEAPER. This is Fords golden ticket. Honestly, I would have paid $10,000 more and felt like I got a deal. I am floored by the cars style and performance.