Used 2019 Lincoln MKZ

The 2019 Lincoln MKZ takes the idea of a premium-midsize sedan down a different road. While many rivals (mostly German) make a virtue of incorporating a sporty side, Lincoln puts the MKZ squarely in the cosseting camp. Not that the car’s composure breaks into a sweat when the corners arrive; this is built on the same excellent bones as the Ford Fusion, after all. A powerful V6 engine and all-wheel drive are also available. But smooth, silent, serene progress in a plush environment is the MKZ’s main selling point. The high level of standard equipment is another attraction, and Lincoln should be applauded for not slapping a heftier price on the hybrid version.

The MKZ isn’t a mere Ford with a superficial makeover. Especially not when the optional 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 is involved, along with the adaptive suspension. This combination means premium-level muscle and luxury-level shock absorption. The optional all-wheel-drive system adds even greater ability by distributing power to whichever wheel or wheels have the most traction, bringing benefits in bad weather and fast corners alike. Things are noticeably more sedate with the standard 2.0-liter engine, despite its turbocharger. The feel of the steering system isn’t as substantial or precise as a BMW, for example, but not too different to those from Acura, Lexus and Volvo.

After the car’s redesign for the 2017 model year, the MKZ’s cabin hasn’t opened to rave reviews. The quality of materials overall is not that impressive, although space is the main issue. For its size, the MKZ ought to have more rear headroom (made worse when the panoramic sunroof is installed), but at least rear legroom will suit the height of those happy to sit in the back. Up front, things are user-friendly and generally agreeable. That includes finding the ideal driving position and getting to know the Sync 3 infotainment system.

That redesign turned the new MKZ’s appearance into something closely resembling the Continental, Lincoln’s large flagship sedan. Which is no bad thing. This fresh styling vocabulary is sufficiently uptown to compete with Cadillacs, Jaguars and BMWs. There are new paint colors for 2019: Infinite Black Metallic, Ceramic Pearl Tri-Coat Metallic and Crystal Copper Metallic Tinted Clearcoat. The MKZ also has some simple yet smart features, such as the capless fuel-filler system that allows refilling without getting dirty hands or forgetting that pesky fuel cap.

PUSH-BUTTON SHIFT
Selecting Park, Reverse and Drive in the 2019 MKZ is not done with an old-school shift lever. It’s a case of pressing buttons on the dash. This is part of the MKZ’s “modern technology meets modern luxury” vibe. Working in the background is a failsafe system preventing inadvertent gear changes, should the driver hit a button by mistake.

LINCOLN DRIVE CONTROL
Although the MKZ majors in plushness, our inner enthusiast still likes this feature. Like many cars in this class, the MKZ offers selectable driving modes that change throttle responses, gearshift points, steering feel and suspension settings, channeled into Normal, Sport and Comfort. It works exactly as it should.

This is how the MKZ starts to look more tempting. There’s a lot of standard equipment, including an adaptive suspension, active noise cancelation, heated front seats, driver’s-side memory settings, rear parking sensors, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, and satellite radio. This is augmented in 2019 with the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 array of advanced driver aids featuring adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance and autonomous emergency braking. Each MKZ also comes with eight airbags, stability control, and Lincoln’s SOS Post-Crash Alert System that activates the horn and hazard lights if an airbag is deployed.

The new trim-level structure of the 2019 Lincoln MKZ means the V6 engine is not available in the Reserve I model. All-wheel drive can be paired with either gasoline engine, but the hybrid is front-drive only. The top Reserve II version receives a power moonroof, power rear sunshade, heated rear seats/steering wheel, multi-contour front seats with Active Motion (automatic bolstering), and 19-inch alloy wheels. The Revel Ultima 20-speaker audio system upgrade in the Reserve Luxury package is highly regarded among sound aficionados.

Base engine for the 2019 MKZ is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit developing 245 horsepower, just about adequate for a car with this kind of heft. A hybrid alternative makes a combined 188 horsepower, but Lincoln doesn’t quote a total torque figure, which should be advantageous despite the extra weight of the battery pack and electric motor. The star performer, though, is the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. Both conventional engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission; the hybrid employs a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard; all-wheel drive (AWD), optional.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
245 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
275 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/31 mpg (FWD), 20/28 mpg (AWD)

2.0-liter inline-4 and permanent magnet AC synchronous motor (hybrid)
188 net hybrid system horsepower
129 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm (gasoline engine only)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 41/38 mpg

3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6
400 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm (AWD)
350 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm (FWD)
400 lb-ft of torque @ 2,750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/27 mpg (FWD), 17/26 mpg (AWD)