When Ford announced its alphabet-soup naming policy for the Lincoln range (with the MKX crossover and forthcoming LS replacement, the MKS sedan), it confusingly left the new Zephyr out of the equation. Now, half a year after its launch as a 2006, Lincoln is showing a 2007 version with a new engine, a new front end, a redesigned rear bumper--oh, and a new name: MKZ.
The Zeph, er, MKZ gets the engine it should've launched with, a 250-horsepower Duratec 3.5-liter V-6, coupled to a six-speed automatic. It replaces a 221-horse, 3.0-liter. The 3.5 first appeared in the MKX crossover, and the MKZ is now available with a version of the MKX's all-wheel-drive system, in addition to standard front-drive.