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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  Great value - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By rpickoff - August 20 - 6:40 am

  This car is a find. I stumbled on it while shopping for AWD sedans on the market. Very well done inside and out. The ride and acceleration are great. Comfortable, highly adjustable seats with memory. Nice, thoughtful touches throughout. I havent yet had a gee, it would have been nice if.....moment Definitely worth a test drive if you are considering a car in this class.

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  WOW - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By JED - August 16 - 6:13 pm

  After test driving every other car in this class, I drove and bought the best. Very impressive car with no changes needed for my liking, almost made a costly mistake and bought something more expensive with less toys and no growl.

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  Not so Impressive - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By Disappointed - August 4 - 11:53 am

  I have owned the MKZ for all of 45 days, to say the least, I was impressed with the outward appearance and the interior features for the price. After purchase, I noticed several items of poor workmanship. As a previous Honda, Infiniti and Lexus owner, you recognize quality. This car is not quality built, I am afraid if I pull or push on something too hard I might damage it. Ive had problems with the seal around the windows to the point objects have gotten down inside the seal and window and scratched the glass. This area also accumulates moisture and the windows are left dirty once you let them down after rain or car washing.

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  A stylish work-horse! - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By MJ Collins - July 28 - 7:40 pm

  I love this car - have only had it 7 months and have driven it in all sorts of road/weather conditions. Recently took a major road trip (5000+ miles) without any trouble or hint of a problem. It is SO comfortable and stylish - not sure why there arent more on the roads!My every driving wish seems to be its command - it is very responsive. You get a whole lot for your money with this car and I am looking forward to it being as good as the 11 year old Town Car that I traded in at 192,000+ miles. Why buy foreign cars when Lincoln is the best money can buy - and as American as baseball! Love my car - or did I already say that? ;))

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  Finally Received 2013 MKZ Hybrid - 2013 Lincoln MKZ
  By tomstrie - July 18 - 2:15 pm

  Well, I finally got mine a hybrid even though it was not the one I ordered. A similar one came to another dealer and my dealer got it for me. So far it is absolutely beautiful, I have gone over it with the proverbial fine tooth comb and can find no flaws. The Crystal Champaign paint is flawless. They really did their homework on this car. With the short time I have had it the mileage shows around 40.1 mpg. I am really impressed with the quietness of the vehicle and the smoothness of the transition from electric to gas. With the car arriving so late I thought of cancelling and waiting for the 2014 but, I am glad I finally got one.

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  is there a ford in your future ? - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By charles - June 26 - 6:03 am

  was driving a mercury sable and missed the lincoln style ride, saw the mkz at my local dealer and it sold itself made the deal and the rest is pure driving pleasure.

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  A Proud MKZ Owner - 2016 Lincoln MKZ
  By Bob - June 13 - 4:58 am

  I took delivery in October of my new Lincoln MKZ and have never, ever been so delighted with a new car. I decided on the 2.0 turbo and its quick. The car acts like a stallion that wants to run fast....and it often takes restraint on my part to watch my speed. You dont realize how fast you are going since the car is quiet and so smooth. (Just read that the National Highway Patrol approved this engine for pursuit) . I particularly love the Push Button Shift selection, which eliminates the cumbersome shifter all other vehicles have. Also love the sliding volume and temperature controls. After driving the Dodge Charger and its obstructed front view I was so impressed with the MKZ panoramic front view. I also love the cool LED taillights...much more suttle than the GLARING Dodge Charger rear lights. Lincoln sold me on this car. Its a car that makes you want to drive it all the time. In closing, I highly recommend shoppers to test drive this car. Ignore critics who dont live day to day with a car but instead toss personal opinions on the limited time they have to drive it. Outstanding car to drive/own.

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  Fully satisfied - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By Bill - June 12 - 3:53 pm

  We bought this car about 1 year ago. It has more than fulfilled our expectations (and we have experienced about every other car in and around its class). Not a single problem so far. Very smooth, comfortable, quiet, and secure ride. Solidly built. No irritating vibrations, rattles, wind noises, or transmission quirks. Wonderful suspension engineered to minimize the “feel of the road” a.k.a. riding on a farm wagon, that several other cars in its class are lauded for (quasi-professional reviewers apparently have a unique sense of what’s appealing to many drivers who might consider buying a near luxury car). Excellent acceleration and power for other than the Datona 500. Highway ~ 27.5 mpg.

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  Owned many MKZs - 2016 Lincoln MKZ
  By Ralph Blazek - June 9 - 4:15 am

  We have leased every model year MKZ since the beginning the 2016 MKZ with Ecoboost 2.0L power train is ASSUME ! Great driving vehicle with Old Time Lincoln ride and 2016 state-of-art handling .

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  2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a great ride! - 2012 Lincoln MKZ
  By Arthur - May 26 - 4:42 pm

  Fit and finish is excellent. Infotainment is a little complicated and counter intuitive but manageable. Nearly 50,000 on original Michelins. GREAT car overall. Getting a 2016 tomorrow with even more technology - SWEET!