Lincoln MKZ

Overview: Is the Lincoln MKZ a Good Luxury Sedan?

The MKZ was Lincoln’s last attempt at a midsize luxury sedan; this Ford division now concentrates exclusively on crossovers and SUVs. Labeled initially as the Lincoln Zephyr, the MKZ came to life in 2007 when the automaker reshuffled its model name format. The new approach also saw the departure of the MKC, MKX, MKS, and MKT model names. A sharply styled second-generation MKZ debuted for the 2013 model year, but Lincoln canceled the model altogether after 2020. The larger Lincoln Continental sedan was axed at the same time. This occurred just as the Cadillac CT4 and CT5 sedans were launched.

The MKZ shared its underpinnings with the Ford Fusion but received unique sheet metal and a more upscale cabin. Hallmarks of this Lincoln model include front wheel drive or all wheel drive, four-cylinder and V6 engines, and a Lincoln MKZ hybrid variant.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Lincoln MKZ cars for sale.

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Related: Which Used Year Model of Lincoln MKZ Is The Best Value?

Key Features

The Lincoln MKZ offers:

• Midsize premium sedan body style
• Four-cylinder, V6, or hybrid powerplants (varying by year)
• Front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD)
• Automatic transmission

Trims

There are no distinctive trims for the first-generation MKZ, just base and mpg-friendly hybrid editions that could be upgraded with options. The second generation saw the introduction of the top-of-the-line Black Label grade. In its final years, Lincoln offered the Premiere and Select Reserve trims under the Black Label.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The MKZ’s cabin is spacious and welcoming, although the back seat has tight quarters, especially with the second generation (its sloping roofline sacrifices headroom). Older MKZs won’t have all the technology bells and whistles (typical of cars more than a decade old), but the second-gen models were available with Co-pilot360 driving aids (like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control), parking assist, and infotainment touchscreens. A spacious trunk has ample room for groceries or luggage.

How It Drives

While the MKZ’s turbo 2.0-liter four- or six-cylinder engines deliver enthusiastic acceleration, this is no high-horsepower sports sedan. First and foremost, the MKZ is a luxury car that prioritizes comfort over athleticism. Nonetheless, behind-the-wheel time is still enjoyable and engaging, with an AWD drivetrain adding extra confidence.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the first generation a solid four-star (out of five) overall safety rating. The second-generation MKZ achieved five-star status for the same tests.

Reviews

Lincoln MKZ reviews on Kelley Blue Book average a 4.6-4.7 out of 5 rating. Across individual categories like reliability, quality, styling, and comfort, owners give the MKZ high marks.

Learn More: Here Are The Lincoln MKZ Years To Avoid and How Long Do Lincoln MKZs Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

FAQs

Why was MKZ discontinued?

Slowing sedan demand motivated Lincoln to drop the MKZ from its lineup after 2020 in favor of more crossovers and SUVs. Today, the Lincoln lineup consists of the Corsair, Aviator, Nautilus, and Navigator–each a crossover utility vehicle (SUV) or SUV. Other luxury brands, like Acura, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz, continue to offer premium sedans.

Is MKZ a Ford Fusion?

Yes and no. The MKZ shared much platform architecture with the midsize Ford Fusion sedan but had its own exterior and interior designs.

Is MKZ luxury?

Yes. As a step above mainstream brands like its Ford Fusion counterpart, the MKZ was intended as an entry point into Lincoln’s lineup, offering premium features and styling and reasonable fuel economy.

Is MKZ American-made?

No. Lincoln assembled the MKZ alongside the Ford Fusion at its Hermosillo Stamping & Assembly plant in Mexico.

Check out a used Lincoln MKZ or Lincoln MKZ hybrid for sale.