2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Reviews
The mid-size 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid sedan shares a proven platform with the Ford Fusion Hybrid and adds an array of luxury features.
From the “Well, Duh” Department at Ford Motor Company comes the new hybrid version of the Lincoln MKZ. The MKZ hybrid is fitted with the same gasoline-electric system found in the hybrid versions of its corporate twins, the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan.
The hybrid powertrain combines a 156-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and 106-hp electric motor for a total system output of 191 hp; it’s rated for 41 mpg in the city and 36 on the highway in the Fusion and Milan variants. What’s next, rain-forest fragrances emanating from the HVAC system?
The company expects 75 percent of those vehicles to be conventional hybrids—and the rest made up of pure electric cars or plug-in hybrids.
The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a good example of how Ford will scale up to reach its target—by spreading its best electric-drive technology across common platforms. Instead of dreaming up a brand new purpose-built gas-electric vehicle for its Lincoln luxury nameplate, Ford is migrating the technology from its award-winning Ford Fusion Hybrid to the MKZ.
Following In Tracks Of Ford Fusion Hybrid
Under the hood is Ford’s second-generation Hybrid Powersplit drivetrain. As a parallel hybrid system, the MKZ Hybrid is able to operate under pure-electric power only, gasoline power only, or a combination of the two. The judgment of the MKZ’s hybrid powertrain by auto critics, not unexpectedly, parallels the Ford Fusion Hybrid. This applies verbatim to the MKZ hybrid.”
Luxury MPG Leader, For Now
Ford boasts that the Lincoln MKZ’s EPA fuel economy rating of 41 mpg city and 36 mpg highway is the most fuel-efficient luxury hybrid on the road. The only thing that distinguishes the hybrid from the gasoline MKZ is small hybrid badges on the front doors and trunk lid. The list of features available with Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is extensive: SYNC (Ford’s voice-activated communications and entertainment system); adaptive HID headlamps; 10-way power seats; heated and cooled front seats; reverse sensing system; keyless entry; capless fuel-filler; a suite of safety features including dual-stage front air bags; parental key systems to limit speed and audio volume for teens; and integrated spotter mirrors.
Like the Fusion Hybrid, the Lincoln features what Ford calls the SmartGauge.
Kiss Hybrid Premium Good-bye
Ford has done something no other carmaker has done, priced the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid the same as the gasoline-powered model: $34,330.
The hybrid premium argument is similarly erased if a popular high-volume vehicle is only offered as a hybrid.
For buyers considering a Lincoln MKZ, the hybrid model makes for an easy choice. The MKZ Hybrid faces only one luxury hybrid competitor: the Lexus HS 250h. If you are not dead set on buying luxury, take a look the MKZ’s blue jeans brother, the Ford Fusion Hybrid. While the Lincoln’s interior is more refined, they both have the same hybrid powertrain that delivers equal fuel economy. The Fusion Hybrid is $6,000 less.
