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 car I will never forget - 2013 Lincoln MKZ
  By jaxflgymboi79 - December 31 - 3:46 am

  I am 33 and just traded my 2011 Ford Taurus in for a 2013 Lincoln MKZ. Never in my life did I ever think I would be interested in a Lincoln until I saw the 2013 MKZ at the 2012 Auto show. As soon as I saw it I said to myself, "That will be my next car." Now I have it and I LOVE it. This review may not mean much to those much older than I am and have had plenty more cars to base their opinions on other than myself. I get that, I really do. But this is a phenomenal car. I am in the military and drive on base(s) every day. Military folks tend to "pay attention," even the car one drives. In one day I was asked about my car about 20 times, including friends and strangers. Test drive it

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  Happy with my MKZ - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By I DO IT MYSELF - December 31 - 12:23 am

  I always buy used cars so this was a nice find 07 Lincoln MKZ. The ride is quiet. The engine is so quiet that after starting I have to look at tach to see if its running. The first full tank of gas I avg 33 mph with about 60% of driving over 50 mph and got 26 mpg. This is great when you only avg 33 mph. It shows you stopping eats gas. The luxury you get with this car is great for this price whether new or used.

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  Very happy - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By jack c - December 23 - 3:36 pm

  I have had the MKZ for 1 month and love it. Fuel mileage could be better in city but better than my Subaru on highway. Hope it gets better after break in.

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  Great car - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By Dave - December 20 - 7:26 pm

  We bought the car as a lease trade in from a dealer. AWD is great in all weather, and the heated and cool seats are comfortable. We have everything, the THX radio with NAV, moonroof and of course AWD. We are get 18mpg and 23mpg on the road. It is quiet and comfortable. Great truck space. Buy it used and you will save a bundle. Ford makes good cars, I have a 2003 Mustang Cobra as well, no problems.

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  Great drive - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By vinnieJ - December 10 - 2:03 am

  I recently totaled my Mercury Montego and found this. Little smaller than what I was getting used to but great to drive. Smooth, quiet, great acceleration. Great look

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  Early ownership review - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By big baby - December 8 - 4:16 am

  Moved out of a small SUV because I wanted to go back to sedans for the ride, comfort and better gas mileage. I researched the heck out of the market (love the actual owner reviews rather than the editors, who only like drivers cars like BMW). Looked into Taurus, Sable, Malibu, Aura, Milan, and MKZ. Got the MKZ due to incredible standard content, price, and importantly (in Texas), the standard air conditioned seats. Bought at cost less $2000 rebate. Its an unbelievable value. Quiet, smooth, fast, roomy. Its got it all for the price of a loaded Accord or Camry!

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  Delight and Surprise - 2007 Lincoln MKZ
  By Robert K Weidner - November 22 - 3:20 pm

  A classy looking car on the outside with a classic Lincoln looking interior design, very nice. Comforable seats with nice sporty feel and drive. Not my former BMW 330 CI, but very enjoyable ownership experience. Reliability is outstanding. Lincoln has changed for the better. I would recommend to others!

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  Wonderful car with great MPG - 2013 Lincoln MKZ
  By jimma - November 14 - 2:30 am

  2013 MKZh , Driving this for a year and half. Was very concerned about buying a Lincoln as I always drove Honda Accords coups (EXL) for last 20 years. I am completely satisfied with this car. I get 39 - 41 mpg , my 4cyl. stick Accord was getting 30. The car handles better than I thought and has enough power for any road situations , I drive turnpikes and large highways and have no trouble entering on ramps and passing large trucks. At 22,000 miles I still get a kick getting into the car.

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  I was Prepared To Be Amazed But I Was Bamboozled - 2017 Lincoln MKZ
  By Scott in Wesern PA - October 24 - 3:20 pm

  To be fair, I was comparing this to the Mercedes E350, Cadillac CTS4, Audi A6 and a BMW 5 series. In my subjective testing of 15-30 minute test drives, each of these cars led or tied a category...The Lincoln was never a serious contender in any category. Cheap interior materials. A $1000+ top-of-the-line sound system that you swear is old fashioned boomboxes stuffed into the door panels. Significant squat upon moderate braking. Confidence un-inspiring body roll in curves. Over-boosted steering. At least they finally got the exterior styling correct as the new grill is beautiful. Significant road noise, could be the tires. I so wanted to like this car, and kept telling myself it stickered $15-$25,000 less than the others, but even at that price point I wouldnt pull the trigger as there are many other options in that price range that offer an engaging driving experience.

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  2017 MKZ Best looking car in its class - 2017 Lincoln MKZ
  By Elliot Samuelson - October 20 - 8:39 pm

  The car is beautiful inside and out . Ride is superior, as is steering and brakes. The anti collision feature is worthless. Does not slow down or stop until within a foot of obstacle. Should work as well as braking for cruise control.