The 2010 Lincoln MKZ was formerly identified as the Zephyr. This is a staple Lincoln luxury car. The MKZ was engineered to compete with the 3 Series by BMW and the ES by Lexus and its reputation is already impeccable.
The MKZ shares its platform with the Ford Fusion. The latter vehicle was identified as the 2010 Car of the Year by Motor Trend. This means the MKZ's roots are impressive too. While the MKS has some trouble, matching the speeds offered by the 3 Series, it is still a pretty speedy vehicle. It sports a 3.5-Liter, V-6 married to a six-speed auto tranny. A hybrid configuration is presently being designed.
The Lincoln MKZ has a well appointed cabin and the exterior style is handsome. Car buyers looking for a vehicle that will make an impression will find the MKZ meets their demand. The cabin is a cribbed Fusion design loaded with advanced technologies and gadgets. The cost of the MKZ is typically lower than its competitors too. This means the MKZ can be had at a very fair price.
The Range
Bodystyles: Sedan
Engines: 3.5L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
Models: MKZ
What's New
The MKZ was restyled for 2010 along with its Ford and Mercury brethren, receiving a 1941 Continental-inspired front end similar to that of the larger MKS. The interior of the car has also been updated, with a focus on creating a quieter and better appointed cabin. Additionally, the 2010 MKZ's transmission receives new gear ratios and a slightly revised engine, though power output remains unchanged.
Exterior
While the Lincoln signature split-wing grille really helps the 2010 MKZ stand out from the crowd, the large headlights that extend deep into the trunk lid and Lincoln badges that adorn the front fenders are not for everyone.
Interior
The MKZ's Fusion-derived interior is highlighted by a big navigation screen and the Lincoln version of Ford's famous Sync system, but the widespread parts-sharing may put some buyers off. However, equipment levels are above-average for the class and price point.
Performance & Handling
The MKZ's lone engine is a 3.5-liter V-6 that makes an adequate 263 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode is standard. By default, power is sent to just the front wheels, but an all-wheel drive model is offered and the 2010 model accelerates roughly a half- second faster than its predecessor.
Safety
The MKZ features side-impact and side-curtain airbags for both front- and rear-seat passengers along with stability control and dual-stage front-impact airbags along with driver-seat position sensors and a three-level front passenger seat load sensor.
EPA Fuel Economy
MKZ FWD: 18 mpg city/27 mpg hwy
MKZ AWD: 18 mpg city/24 mpg hwy
You'll Like
- Competitive pricing
- Solid entertainment options
You Won't Like
- Needs sport variant
- Average fuel economy
Sum Up
Lincoln finally holds its own
If You Like This Vehicle
- Acura TSX
- Buick LaCrosse
- Lexus ES