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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  A quiet comfortable and smooth ride - 2017 Lincoln MKZ
  By Daniel Justin - May 7 - 7:16 pm

  I just traded in my Toyota Avalon Hybrid for this 2017 Lincoln MKZ hybrid and I am glad I did. American cars have really improved. This is one comfortable-quiet-smooth ride. You get so much more for your money. I am averaging 40 MPG although I am a conservative driver. The only downside to this car is that the acceleration is a bit on the slow side, although that is not a problem for me personally. Its like driving with the eco on all the time. And the other downside is the very small trunk area and no spare tire. But everything else is fantastic. From the very first look and test drive I knew this was the car for me. The dealership really took care of me and they made the experience simple and easy. It takes some time to learn all of the ins and outs that the vehicle can do, but that is understandable considering the complexity of the system. I am a car nut and I am really digging this ride. If only the traffic out there wasnt so insane.

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  Excellent Car - with a few irritations - 2014 Lincoln MKZ
  By tarheel6521 - May 5 - 11:27 pm

  I had the itch to trade and had researched the MKZ, E350 and BMW 5-Series in the previous weeks. My irritations are with build quality - which I blame on Ford shipping their luxury car brand assembly to Mexico. As this was the most expensive car Ive ever bought or leased, I expect ZERO defects. My MB and 2012 Taurus were perfect during my entire ownership experience. I expect the same from what was Americas luxury car leader for so many years. remains they are left to clean up the issues caused by mother Ford/Lincoln by farming assembly to Mexico to save costs, but still charge a big price for their vehicles.

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  Engine noise - 2009 Lincoln MKZ
  By Alvin - April 20 - 7:56 pm

  This is my first Ford purchase. Previouly I owned 3 Buick Riverias. I am very pleased with all tne new technology offered in the MKz. Thus far my chief complaints are I find the width of front seats about 2 inches too narrow and the engine sounds too loud,like a 4 cyl. I suspect the engine sound is the result of the fan blades on the engine. Very annoying>>>>

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  The Best Car I Have Ever Had! - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By Holly - April 17 - 12:23 am

  I love my AWD MKZ. It handles beautifully and is a fun car to drive! This is my fourth Lincoln and wont be my last. I had 3 Continentals prior to this car and loved every one of them but this car is a perfect fit for me. I feel so safe and grounded in this car and it takes curves better than the Lexus GS that I have driven so often. MKZ is a great value for the money. The only thing I am slightly disappointed in is the gas mileage but with just 6300 miles on it I am told it will still improve. MKZ is a lot of car for the money. I am a loyal domestic owner!

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  5 month update - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By big baby - April 14 - 9:53 pm

  What a great car! Only problem Ive had is a very slight pull to the right which Ill take care of at the first service. On a trip from Dallas to Houston I got almost 32 MPG with the cruise set at about 68. Back home which is a bit uphill, and with a strong headwind got 28.5 MPG. Day to day driving which is about 80% city and 20% highway, the gauge has been sitting at 22.7 MPG for about a month. On regular gas! After living with it for a time I think the dash design needs an update (maybe like the new MKS?) but I can live with it. Engine is strong, tranny is super smooth. Trunk is large and the fold down rear seats really have been helpful. Ford has hit a grand slam on this puppy!

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  Not your grandpas car anymore - 2014 Lincoln MKZ
  By Varun - March 27 - 10:41 pm

  No place to review the TV ads? ;) Must say as a 33 year old and looking for a car that is reliable, sleek, feature rich, sporty yet sophisticated - I didnt think an American car stood a chance. Then Lincoln redesigned the MKZ in 2013 and boy did they do an amazing job! It turned my head whenever I saw one on the road... And Im glad to say the features match the top notch style. I have the 14 MKZ 3.7 v6 FWD. Also has the Tech Package, 19" wheels and THX sound. My highlights: - Exterior look is bold yet sophisticated - interior is exquisite. The touch screens and knob/buttonless center console is awesome! - Noise cancelling technology makes the cabin super quiet - push button transmission! Uh, super cool! - Techology package is a must for adaptive cruise control (read about it), parallel park assist, Lane departure warning & more - the THX sound is incredible! 14 speakers worth of audio bliss - The car handles like a dream, even in snowey conditions and the sports mode is fun for when you want more muscle than fuel economy - every feature you want is included: memory seats, a remote start that works from inside a building, dimming & Heated mirrors, power open/close on trunk, voice control your phone (Siri) plus the car, heated & cooled seats... All of them! Plus heated steering wheel. This car is amazing. Give it a try, its hands down better than all its competitors in overall value, features and perdormance.

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  3 months and losing steam - 2009 Lincoln MKZ
  By DGeorgia - March 27 - 8:26 am

  The MKZ drives well, is comfortable, and gets decent MPG. However, many gremlins have popped up over the last 2 months....2 broken trim pieces, replaced weather stripping due to wind noise, and multiple hard to isolate squeaks and rattles have dropped my opinion of this car down several notches. One thing to consider: Lincoln is till Ford and unfortunately you dont get stellar service due to this fact. Like the drive, not sure Ill keep it due to lots of time spent in the shop due to annoying minor issues.

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  Impressive Statement from Lincoln - 2013 Lincoln MKZ
  By johnnytshea3 - March 22 - 7:29 pm

  This car is just a joy to drive. I get compliments almost daily on the styling, its definitely a head-turner. As far as the driving experience, one word of advice; save some $ and go for the 2-liter Ecoboost. My previous 11 MKZ had the 3.7 and I see little difference performance-wise, yet Im getting 8-10 mpg better mileage. The MyLincolnTouch system is not perfect, but its not nearly as frustrating as its made out to be. Fit and finish is good, although one negative is that the steering wheel placement obstructs the gear indicator on the instrument panel. This is a problem if you want to drop it into sport mode. Overall though, I am very satisfied, this car gets an awful lot right.

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  From Lexus to Lincoln MKZ - 2017 Lincoln MKZ
  By Mr. Bill - March 20 - 7:15 am

  Just clocked the first 1500 miles om my brand new leased 2017 Lincoln MKZ. In a word everything about this car is great!! My past 5 cars were all Lexus ES 350s but on this trade the dealer let me take a MKZ I liked for the 4th of July weekend and the day I returned it, it was mine. The technology on this car is overwhelming, the comfort is just what my body has always wanted in a car and the looks are demanding attention and good comments from all quarters. I feel truly secure in this car from all perspectives. My Lexus were great cars but Lincoln did Lexus one better this time around with the MKZ. Mr. Bill

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  Very Pleased - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By Jim - February 26 - 4:26 am

  Very pleased with the MKZ. The ride is great and the comfort is excellent. Have had many compliments on the car. MPG is in the mid-20s.