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:

• 

  Awesome car!!! - 2017 Lincoln MKZ
  By Teresa - January 28 - 7:51 pm

  Love the style and handle. Best 2017 model in its class.

• 

  Way to go Detroit - 2016 Lincoln MKZ
  By Steve Yzerman - January 20 - 12:20 am

  Sleek lines and colors, comfortable and quality interior, ‘just right’ firm and quiet ride. For my city driving, the hybrid is perfect. Being born and raised in the Detroit metro area, now living [two decades] in our nation’s capital and I am very proud to show America still make exceptional automobiles.

• 

  MKZ Sport, too much fun. - 2010 Lincoln MKZ
  By Huskie - January 3 - 9:33 am

  I have now owned my 2010 Black MKZ ultimate sport, for about 24 hours. It is a blast. I traded in my 2006 Zephyr, and this car is soo much more car than it was. I love every feature of this car. The ride is a little stiff with the sport package, but once the tire gloss is off of the tires it will be amazing. :-)

• 

  I Am Now Known As Mr MKZ - 2016 Lincoln MKZ
  By Bob - December 29 - 11:31 pm

  I took delivery of my 2016 MKZ in October and had my plates personalized as MR MKZ. I cannot express how wonderful this car rides and performs. I turn heads in my neighborhood (full of foreign cars) and are often asked who makes this car. I cannot think of one thing negative about this car. I did notice this car wants to run fast and often realize Im driving faster than it seems. Kudos to Lincoln on a superior ride. I did opt for the 19 inch wheels since I think it gives the car a nice profile. 5 stars + Totally satisfied customer!!

• 

  ANEMIC - 2017 Lincoln MKZ
  By mkz1 - December 13 - 8:55 pm

  Good looking , nice graphics, and that’s it the engine and transmission is the worst I have driven in modern times—under powered- loud engine, cvt is anemic and hardly any downshift-- the most disappointing in power, ride is satisfactory but and appointments-lighting is great—the “leather” is awful- and way to light for every day use. Soon car manufactures will make only 1-2 interiors black and light and light will be filthy in a week-neither are for real uses. Avg 36 MPG

• 

  Great car - 2010 Lincoln MKZ
  By hank - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Bought a black on black MKZ and have 2800 miles and have not had the car back to garage for anything. When I was looking to buy compared the MKZ to Nissan Maxima but to get memory seats you had to spend in excess of 2K extra for maxima. This put the price of the two cars within hundreds of dollars. Opted for the MKZ and decided to give Ford (1st time ford buyer) a chance. No regrets yet. MKZ is very good value for mid size luxury car.

• 

  Ill never buy anything else - 2008 Lincoln MKZ
  By John - December 6 - 5:04 am

  I love my 08 MKZ. Heated seats are amazing. Sometimes they get a little to hot. I know what Ill be getting when its time for a new one.

• 

  FromZtoShiningZ - 2011 Lincoln MKZ
  By FromZ2ShiningZ - December 6 - 2:00 am

  I had a Zepher. Beside rear lights and front clip updates this isnt the same car. And, thats a good thing. The MKZ made a good car much better. Though the options list has many techie things that I just dont want to pay more for. Yes, the Lincoln MKZ is a blue collar luxury car, what Mercury should have been. But, my MKZ with heated/cooled seats, moonroof, chrome wheels, All- Wheel-Drive, Memory Seats, Dual Auto Air, real nice leather, and other stuff. SYNC by Microsoft (the best blue tooth, song, traffic and turn-by-turn Navigation device Ive ever used). Was only $10.00 more a month than a fully loaded Camry! And, better than the Mercedes 300 I surrendered. I recommend the MKZ.

• 

  Engaging Lincoln "Z" - 2012 Lincoln MKZ
  By ojars zvaigzne - November 17 - 9:46 am

  I purchased this vehicle used in 2015 with 49k miles on the "clock". I REALLY like the car! The car is an outstanding value as a USED car because of its high depreciation. It delivers in "spades" when it comes to providing a serene and VERY quiet ride. Performance is very good with rapid acceleration and precise,flat cornering. Reliability has been outstanding with ZERO problems during the 14mo that I have had the car. The car has a very good interior except for a couple of things: the door storage bins are made of hard plastic and dont match the high quality of the rest of interior; the base audio system leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to sound quality (poor bass). I would also give a shout out to the selling dealer, WHITE BEAR LINCOLN in White Bear Lake, MN. This dealer "bent over backwards" to make sure I was totally satisfied with my purchase! KUDOS!

• 

  Cant use chains or cables for snow - 2011 Lincoln MKZ
  By B Noble - October 25 - 2:00 am

  This car is great to drive - except you cannot use cables or chains under snow conditions over passes in Sierras. The controls for the car hang down within 1 " of the top of the front tires. Cables and/or chains could damage control mechanisms of car. Otherwise, gas economy is about 40 mpg on freeway and 39 in town. Seats comfortable. Dual climate controls outstanding.