Description

The Lincoln MKZ gets a new hybrid-powered version for 2011, joining a lineup of midsize luxury sedans that was thoroughly updated for 2010. We found the Lincoln MKZ quite pleasant, with a spacious, understated interior, and a well-balanced combination of ride comfort and easy handling. The MKZ seats five, it offers ample leg and hip room front and rear for four, and boasts a large trunk. The Lincoln MKZ comes standard with front-wheel drive and a V6. A sports suspension package and all-wheel drive are available for sportier handling and all-weather capability. The new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a four-cylinder gas-electric model that trades some straight-line performance for an exceptional EPA-estimated 41 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway. The Hybrid is priced identically to the V6 model and comes with all the same standard equipment. We found the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid easy to drive and operate. It's smooth, sophisticated and refined. The Hybrid employs a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. (You do not plug it in.) We found the Lincoln MKZ stable and calm through the corners. The all-wheel-drive sports model has a driving performance envelope that overlaps that of sporty cars. The standard V6 revs to 6750 rpm and we found engine and transmission responsive when called upon. The MKZ is more of a luxury car than a sporty car, but it can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds, which is reasonably quick. New for 2011 is MyKey, a programmable key that allows you to limit speed and audio volume, useful when loaning the car to your son or daughter. MyKey encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph. Also new for 2011 are side mirrors that incorporate a convex section to reduce blind spots. The Lincoln MKZ looks similar to the MKS flagship luxury sedan. The MKZ offers many of the features and capabilities as the top-of-the-line Lincoln sedan, but in a more compact and affordable package. 3.5L V-6 Engine 6-spd w-OD Transmission 263 @ 6,250 rpm Horsepower 249 @ 4,500 rpm Torque Front-wheel Drive type ABS and driveline Traction control 17 machined aluminum Wheels Front air conditioning, dual zone automatic Driver and front passenger heated-cushion, heated-seatback Heated front seats SIRIUS AM-FM-Satellite, seek-scan Radio Keyfob (all doors) Remote keyless entry Front Fog-driving lights Heated mirrors Bridge of Weir leather Seat trim Driver and passenger Lumbar support Parking assist