Lincolnsonline tests the MKZ!

[pro-five-oh]

That's right, LoL got their hands on the kinda-new MKZ too, a few weeks before they hit the showrooms!

http://media.ford.com/press_files/image_files/mkz_2.jpg



Little has changed cosmetically (see above ) from the Zephyr, which is somewhat disappointing because the MKX crossover we reviewed (see thread) has nicer interior plastics and vinyls on the doors and dash. Like the MKX, the MKZ also has a plug to connect your MP3 player into the stereo.

http://media.ford.com/press_files/image_files/mkz_5.jpg

Still, the MKZ is a HUGE improvement over the Zephyr. Ride and handling seems about the same, maybe a touch firmer, but its still not a high performance sedan. The new Duratec 3.5L V6 is a wonderful motor (15hp less than the MKX). More grunt from takeoff and more high-rpm punch. It also feels much smoother than the old 3.0L. Combined with low-octane gas, its a win-win addition.

http://media.ford.com/press_files/image_files/mkz_3.jpg

The optional AWD is a lot of fun for performance drivers who still need a comfy car for the family, or for people up north who want the extra traction. You can fully exploit the 3.5L's extra power in the turns, nail the gas in a corner and all four wheels throw you forward: you can't do that in a FWD or RWD car. Its pretty fun, sort of a Subaru WRX for a soccer mom.

http://news.windingroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/07/Lincoln-MKZ-closeup.jpg



So all in all, aside from the interior that isn't as good as the MKX Crossover, the MKZ is a huge improvement over the Zephyr. This is what should have been available in 2006.

[Sysanalyst]

Well, maybe I'll take a drive up to the Lincoln dealer and give one a spin. The Zephyr was disappointment in my book, but perhaps this new "Z" car will be a world better. I'm really looking forward to test driving the new Lexus LS when it arrives in the showroom - 380 HP 4.6L V8 comes to mind.

[nailfoot]

Cool! Sounds like an execellent car, and I agree with Nick's idea to go test drive one.

Does this mean LoL is obtaining more popularity with the manufacturer?

[pro-five-oh]

Does this mean LoL is obtaining more popularity with the manufacturer?

I wish. This just means I'm becoming a better guerilla journalist. :)

[JoshMcMadMac]

So when is it going to get a killer motor?

[Matt]

Yeah I was kind of surprised to see that you got one before, then I realized those were press photos.

I guess I should tell everyone how it is then when I see it in a few weeks?

http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/448094/fullsize/dsc07457.jpg
http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/448095/fullsize/dsc07458.jpg

[v8_dave]

Not bad, that extra power might be the help it needs!

[pro-five-oh]

I guess I should tell everyone how it is then when I see it in a few weeks?

http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/448094/fullsize/dsc07457.jpg
http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/448095/fullsize/dsc07458.jpg

Wow, that's way better than the gig I went to, its at Ford's PAG headquarters! Well I guess I can't complain, I got a gift certificate to a local restaurant so I got a free dinner out of the deal too.

Just to be clear, my road test came from sampling the vehicles at a Lincoln Ride and Drive Event.

[Matt]

Wow, that's way better than the gig I went to, its at Ford's PAG headquarters! Well I guess I can't complain, I got a gift certificate to a local restaurant so I got a free dinner out of the deal too.

Just to be clear, my road test came from sampling the vehicles at a Lincoln Ride and Drive Event.

Yeah I just get to visit Ford's measly design studio..

[DocWagon]

It's going to be a tough call when my Towncar finally lays down. Another Towncar or the MKZ?

The interior is absolutely gorgeous!:eek:

[Sysanalyst]

Remember when Ford used to put V8 engines in their high end and expensive luxury cars? If Lexus can squeeze 380 HP out of a 4.7 Liter V8 and couple this with an 8 speed automatic transmission, why can't Ford at least come close. Even Infiniti (Nissan) uses powerful V8 engines in their flagship vehicles. In this crowded luxury market, you either compete, or get out of the way.

[pro-five-oh]

Ford needs the balls (and the money) to make a chassis worthy something like the Lexus' V8 and tranny. Sure it would fit in a Town Car, but that's not what I mean. ;)

[Steve Moran]

"LINCOLN LOUNGE EVENT"I think Lincoln is spying on us.

[LuxuryLiner]

That's right, LoL got their hands on the kinda-new MKZ too, a few weeks before they hit the showrooms!

http://media.ford.com/press_files/image_files/mkz_2.jpg



Little has changed cosmetically (see above ) from the Zephyr, which is somewhat disappointing because the MKX crossover we reviewed (see thread) has nicer interior plastics and vinyls on the doors and dash. Like the MKX, the MKZ also has a plug to connect your MP3 player into the stereo.

http://media.ford.com/press_files/image_files/mkz_5.jpg

Still, the MKZ is a HUGE improvement over the Zephyr. Ride and handling seems about the same, maybe a touch firmer, but its still not a high performance sedan. The new Duratec 3.5L V6 is a wonderful motor (15hp less than the MKX). More grunt from takeoff and more high-rpm punch. It also feels much smoother than the old 3.0L. Combined with low-octane gas, its a win-win addition.

http://media.ford.com/press_files/image_files/mkz_3.jpg

The optional AWD is a lot of fun for performance drivers who still need a comfy car for the family, or for people up north who want the extra traction. You can fully exploit the 3.5L's extra power in the turns, nail the gas in a corner and all four wheels throw you forward: you can't do that in a FWD or RWD car. Its pretty fun, sort of a Subaru WRX for a soccer mom.

http://news.windingroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/07/Lincoln-MKZ-closeup.jpg



So all in all, aside from the interior that isn't as good as the MKX Crossover, the MKZ is a huge improvement over the Zephyr. This is what should have been available in 2006.

I would love to hear the stereo...if it really is THX, my TC is just lame Stereo-wise. Plus the interior really is hot!!!!

[Dana_15]

I would love to hear the stereo...if it really is THX


We have the THX in our Zephyr and it sounds excellent, very crisp. I believe the MKZ has better subs, a single 8" as compared to the 6X9's used as subs in the Zephyr. Excellent option for the price and it looks great in the car also (the center channel speakers look good) :cool: