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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  Run Away! - 2016 Lincoln MKZ
  By Chris Healey - December 11 - 8:26 am

  I was upgraded to the 2016 MKZ 3.7L (Edmunds wont let me select the 3.7L engine option), as a rental car this week and Ive been driving it all week. And I have to day this is the worst car in this class I have driven in a very long time. First off it is UGLY. I mean really ugly. At the front it is channelling a PT Cruiser and the back reminds me of some French car from years ago. In other words the great looks of the Fusion it is based upon have been kicked to the curb in favor of a monstrosity that no one could possibly find attractive. The interior looks like it might be premium in some aspects, but upon closer inspection, they disappoint. Edmunds was generous giving it a C. It feels lively enough off the line, but stomp the right foot and expect some disturbing torque steer. Ford engineers need to buy a VW GTI and figure out why a car that costs $10K less has solved the problem of torque steer, and they seemingly cannot. I enjoyed no aspect of driving this car. The handling sucks, it is not especially quick, although feels quicker because you are dealing with the torque steer drama. The interior lacks any kind of premium features one would expect of a car in the mid $30s. The car before the car I own now was a CPO Mercedes C Class. Given the choice between a 9 month old CPO fully loaded Mercedes, and this junker, its a no brainer. Dont like used cars, even CPO? Well heck, you can buy a Mercedes CLA or BMW 320 for the same price as this Lincoln. And the latter includes four years of free servicing, along with a ride and handling that will put this MKZ to shame. When the price tag tips past $30K there are a wealth of cars available from great very young CPO offerings, to excellent new choices. You have top of the line regular cars, and entry level luxury cars. And the bottom line; this car simply doesnt compete. It doesnt bring enough to the table to stand out, or even be noticed. I honestly cant think of a single match up with any $35K car, that this comes close to winning. To me the only buyer for this car would be someone who is a die hard Lincoln fan and someone who has never driven any other $35K car. Because trust me I have shopped this segment extensively and driven dozens of rentals in a similar price point, and everything trounces this car. The sad thing is, I actually have a soft spot for the Fusion. The most recent makeover that borrowed from Aston Martin styling cues was a huge upgrade on the old dated Fusion. So to give the Fusion the fugly make over, charge $15K more, and not even offer basics like an adjustable steering column or sunroof is kind of a joke. Make a list of cars priced $30K - $40K stick a pin in it, and youll have a better car than this. Edmunds says C, I say F.

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  Overheating issues - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By montanaboy - September 29 - 1:30 am

  We bought the car in April and generally like the car. We have had an overheating problem three times on hot days in heavy traffic. The thermostat has been replaced but the problem is still there and they cant seem to duplicate the problem when I take it to the shop. It seems like the cooling fans dont always come on. Very troubling.

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  Excellence! - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By Dianna - September 28 - 12:46 pm

  I love my MKZ. I gave top dollar for top car. This is an awesome ride. I only wish the trunk would raise up when button pushed. I love the THX system navigation and the maple trim in my model. This is just great. Cant wait till the MKR is out.

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  I tried a bunch, MKZ fit me - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By dave1968 - September 20 - 1:43 am

  I wanted a mid-sized sedan, and ended up looking at 35 vehicles and driving 22 times in a 5 month period. MKZ was the best fit for me, and after 1500 miles I cant find flaws. Mileage is averaging 21, and got 27.3 on a highway-only trip at mostly 70mph. I didnt opt for the NAV system or THX sound, a small Garmin GPS unit fits fine in the console cupholder. Step-in height is more comfortable than a TL, and usable space much better than an IS. Console and instruments arent trying to be the space shuttle, just useful and tasteful and readable. Were looking forward to feeling the AWD in snow, and a circle-lake-superior trip. All cars involve compromise, MKZ is one to look at.

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  My Little Lincoln - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By kinsellj - July 21 - 3:20 am

  This car met these criteria when I shopped: Under $30K, reg gas, leather, good gas mileage, bluetooth, American. There is no perfect car, but this one is really good. If the tranmission allowed it to be more responsive at highway speeds (acceleration), it would be darn close. It does not have the rock solid handling of my 2004 Accord Coupe, but actually gets around turns at the same speeds. At $26.5K it was the right choice. Sync is great, the standard stereo is good (I wish I got the THX). It is the best looking car I have owned.

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  Superb value - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By Dr. RHK - July 20 - 12:53 pm

  Superb value for the money with all the typical luxury features which would cost $3-6K more on comparable models. I gave up a BMW 740i [drove for 8 years] and have driven numerous BMW 300 series. I was looking for a smaller car since my kids are grown up and wanted to downsize with the following criteria: a] reliable b] safe c] fun to drive. The computer came up with BMW, Audi, Acura & Lincoln. When I saw the Lincoln, I thought you must be joking, but I researched all, test drove and picked the Lincoln. Its a choice I have not regreted; I am enormously satisfied with the handling, comfort, THX system and reliability. Its a sharp, sporty luxury car. Firm ride so might not fit all buyers.

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  Road Trip In a 2013 Lincoln MKZ - 2013 Lincoln MKZ
  By ron6 - June 3 - 3:45 pm

  My wife and I traded our 2005 Toyota Avalon XLS for a 2013 Lincoln MKZ 2.0 at the end of February 2013. We looked at a number of mid-sized luxury cars and decided on the MKZ based on its styling, features, and a test drive. On March 8 we left on a 4000 mile round trip from Minnesota to Arizona. When we returned home eleven days later, we had driven on icy Midwest roads, 11,000 mountain passes, desert roads and interstate highways in seven states. We averaged 30.5 mpg over the 4000 miles and never experienced a problem of any type with the car. The 2.0 Eco-Boost engine is a marvel and has plenty of power at all speeds. Disclaimer: our son-in-law works for Ford but not for Lincoln.

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  Reliable ride - 2012 Lincoln MKZ
  By mkzrrr - May 31 - 1:27 am

  Turned in a leased 2008 base car for a loaded 2012. Wanted a Hybrid but would have to pay almost $100.00/ month more for a base car than a loaded regular gas engine. FMC does not want to sell Hybrids. The 2008 handled much better than the 2012 . Improvements are a quieter ride and much nicer interior. Do not pay extra for the THX sound system. The base stereo in some ways was better in the 2008 model. Millage has averaged around 22 mpg in mixed use, 24 hwy. The 2008 had almost 50,000 trouble free miles and I expect the 2012 to be the same. Expect around $7000.00 discount on a loaded car, little or none on Hybrid.

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  Lincoln can do better than this.... - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By MKZer - May 28 - 2:26 pm

  Very "herky-jerky" starts caused by the transmission or electronic controls. Dealership says its inherent in the new design and and even though they acknowledge the rough ride; they say Ford has not given any warranty repair advise. Therefore, they cant authorize any warranty repairs. They say its a problem but dont know what to do.... "poor design" i guess. Im very disappointed and will be looking to trade out of this car soon.

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  L is for Lincoln not Lexus! - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By sport99 - May 19 - 8:23 am

  Just took delivery of my MKZ AWD after months of researching BMW, M-B, Jaguar X Type and Audi A4. Lincoln offers far more value for the money than any of the others. Exterior styling is far better than past lincolns and the interior finally resembles the high level that lincoln of the past was noted for. This car comes with almost everything standard. In Canada where i live it is also sold with 4 year fully paid up scheduled maintenance so all i have to do is put gas in it and insure it. THX II Certified Audio is a must have. Quality is as good as any import. I really suggest if you are looking for an entry level luxury sedan..check out the MKZ. you wont find a better deal on the market