Lincoln Updates MKZ

Lincoln’s MKZ shouldn’t yet be due for a restyle, but that didn’t stop designers from forcefully acquiring the additional budget necessary to change just about every aesthetic aspect for 2010. A completely new exterior shows hints of MKS, with a "split-wing grille" and thinner headlights dominating a new fascia and wide LED taillights stretching across the trunk, stopping to leave just enough room for the Lincoln star. That same star is now stuck to the front fenders, too – something the company calls "DNA Delivery."

 

The previous MKZ was often criticized for being slightly behind the competition in terms of features and luxury. To ensure this didn’t happen again, Lincoln overcompensated, adding upscale features such as a reverse camera, rain-sensing wipers, adaptive headlights and blind-spot detection. The latter also features "Cross Traffic Alert," which uses radar to detect approaching vehicles when moving out of parking spots. It has the ability to "see" 65 feet in either direction. Finally, the MKZ will debut the latest version of Ford’s successful SYNC system, this time featuring Sirius Travel Link, which can do tricks such as spot the cheapest gas station in town or display movie theater schedules. And if that wasn’t cool enough, the system will even offer synopses of what’s playing!

 

On the luxury side, the new MKZ comes stacked with genuine wood and aluminum, as well as Bridge of Weir leather seating (depending on the trim package). While the quality of materials may have gone from pitiful to class-leading, Lincoln tells us that the little touches, such as new welcome chimes, a redesigned instrument panel and a capless fuel filler (dubbed "Easy Fuel") are what will set MKZ apart from the competition. The car is also quieter than before, thanks to the use of thicker window glass all around and an acoustic windshield.

 

Despite the big visual changes, things are mechanically much the same as last year, with a 263 horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 being the only engine option, and standard front-wheel drive (all-wheel drive available). The engine is able to produce this horsepower on 87 octane fuel, and that includes an impressive 249 lb-ft of torque.

 

A revised 6-speed transmission now incorporates SelectShift, which finally brings the Lincoln up to par with competitors, allowing steering-wheel-mounted shifting. Lincoln hopes that revised gear ratios will net the MKZ an additional 2 mpg on the highway, for a rating of 18/28 mpg (city/hwy).

 

Customers sometimes complained about the MKZ’s lack of a sporting character. To that end, the new car is said to reach 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, 0.6 seconds faster than the predecessor, and the rear suspension has been redesigned, allowing the MKZ to have plusher suspension settings, while not compromising the newfound sporting demeanor. And the 2010 MKZ can be had in sport trim, which incorporates a stiffer suspension, 18-inch polished wheels and a red "Z" on the decklid badge. Other cues are a redesigned front grille with darkened headlights and contrasting piping on the interior leather. The 2010 MKZ will be in showrooms in spring 2009.