Lincoln, Ford’s luxury brand has always struggled in the midst of other luxury offerings such as Lexus, BMW, Mercedes and Audi. The MKZ brand has failed to attract any significant attention. This necessitated Lincoln to redesign the MKZ for the 2017 model year. Except for the hybrid drive-train, the MKZ is identical to its conventional sisters. For the 2017 model year, the automaker has strived to offer
For the 2017 model year, the automaker has strived to offer more competitive model in this very competitive market segment. It however remains to be seen whether the model will live up to the huge luxury expectations and compete at the same level with the luxury haulers from Germany. Read along to find out more:
2017 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Exterior
At the front, the sedan features a single-piece grille. Flanking it are adaptive LED headlights. The model also features slimmer LED fog lights compared to the outgoing model while corner vents have been enlarged. A new chrome accenting is featured around the model’s lower air vents and fog lights. The engine hood looks unchanged from what we saw on the 2013 concept. However, new bodylines on the outside make it look more aggressive.
On the sides, the sedan is identical to the 2013 concept. Lincoln has still retained the attractive lower body line that stretched from the front all the way to the rear wheels through the bottom side of the doors. Everything is maintained as it was in the concept, as Ford did not like to tamper with the body that has already received a favorable reception in the market. The base model rides on 18-inch but there is an option for 19-ich polished alloy wheels.
At the rear, the model looks identical to the concept. Small LED taillights, high-mount brake lights and an LED bar that stretches between the taillights characterize the rear of the MKZ. The rear also features an identical lip on the deck lid to that we saw on the 2013 concept.
2017 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Interior
The interior has been upgraded with new technologies and premium materials to improve its billing as an entry-level mid-size luxury sedan. The model comes with a floating center console, an emerging trend in the industry. The console looks elegant and it adds some storage space below. The sedan also features a push-button shifter, which has helped open up the cabin. The instrument cluster is stylish and sleek. It features a driver’s information center tucked between the tachometer and speedometer.
The model is also hooked up with a premium infotainment system with a huge touch-screen display. It offers Smartphone integration and hosts the vehicle’s navigation system. The layout of the ventilation and audio controls, USB ports and regularly used buttons has been improved for easier access.
Audiophiles will love the car’s 20-speaker sound system while a panoramic sunroof makes the interior look very attractive particularly during the sunny days.
The cabin is upholstered in leather even in the entry trim. Buyers can also opt for a Drivers Package that adds an Ebony trimmed interior along with carbon-fiber accents, aluminum pedal covers and multi-color seats.
Overall, the cabin is well equipped. However, for more equipment, one can opt for one of the three Black Label packages that offer optimal speaker placement and customized door panels.
Engine and performance
The 2017 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid derives its power from a 2.0 L, 4-cylinder mill that combines with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. The drive-train mates to a CVT system that sends power to the front wheels. The system combines to produce 188 hp.
This power output enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 8.9 seconds, a second slower than Lexus ES 300h. The hybrid drive-train helps improve the model’s fuel efficiency to 41 mpg in city, 39 mpg on highway and 40 mpg on combined drives.
Price and release date
On the premiere 400A trim, the 2017 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid starts at $35,010; the Select 500A trim fetches $36,760. The top Reserve 600A trim will cost you $39,510. For more bucks, buyers can opt for the available extras. The MKZ Hybrid and its conventional sisters will be delivered to dealerships starting this fourth quarter of 2016.
