2009 Lincoln MKZ

The Lincoln MKZ is a mid size, entry-level luxury sedan intended to compete with rivals such as the Lexus ES350. Based on the Ford Fusion, which is itself a derivative of the fine-handling Mazda 6, the MKZ has a confusing history: designed as a replacement for the rear wheel drive Lincoln LS, the car was originally known as the Zephyr for its first year of production in 2006 but then confusingly was rechristened the MKZ in 2007 to reflect Lincoln's new alphabetical naming strategy.

Second year changes were not limited to the name change, however; the MKZ received Ford's new 3.5 Liter V6 with 263 horsepower and 249 horsepower, a huge improvement over the 3.0 Liter unit found in the Zephyr. The new engine mates to a smooth shifting 6-Speed automatic. Chassis upgrades include stiffer springs and dampers along with thicker anti roll bars, while steering was revised to improve precision and feel. Visual revisions to differentiate the MKZ from the Zephyr include a new waterfall grille, revised chrome trim, and new 17-inch wheels.

The MKZ comes standard a full leather interior, heated/power seats, wood trim, and front wheel drive. Optional features include all-wheel drive, a voice activated navigation system, and a satin nickel aluminum package that adorns the doors and instrument panel with satin nickel trim. Audio fanatics will be impressed by a 600 Watt, 14-speaker premium sound system that incorporates two subwoofers and a six disc in-dash CD changer.

Safety features on the MKZ include dual front airbags as well as side curtain airbags for both first and second rows; the MKZ earned a five star safety rating for frontal impacts.