Lincoln MKZ offers style and essence

The 2012 MKZ Hybrid is a midsize sedan produced by Lincoln with a starting price of around $34,000. One of its most distinctive features is its prominent and imposing silver grille. Smooth lines and sharp edges provide a sleek and elegant design. The interior is reminiscent of the Ford Fusion Hybrid but with a more luxurious feel. One of the best features of the MKZ is that it is priced the same as its non-hybrid counterpart, which means that consumers can opt for the hybrid version at no additional cost (as is often the case).

More Americans are considering alternatives to gasoline vehicles due to high gas prices and that’s where the MKZ comes into play. It stands out from the rest of its competitors by providing a touch of luxury with an efficient powertrain. The 4-door MKZ is equipped with a 2.5-liter engine that works in tandem with an electric motor for a total of 136 lb-ft of torque and 191 horsepower. Gas mileage is 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The transitions between the use of electricity and gas are seamless. The driving experience is engaging and sportier than you’d expect from a typical hybrid vehicle. Smart Gauge is in place; a computer system that trains drivers to drive more efficiently. An LCD screen displays flowers that bloom based on how efficiently the car is driven.

Since Lincoln is aimed at a luxury market, consumers can expect to find a great selection of services and amenities. The interior is well insulated and decorated with real wood and chrome accents. The touchscreen allows the driver to adjust the audio system, climate controls and make hands-free calls via Bluetooth. Optional features include a high-tech navigation system that uses voice commands.

Let’s take a look inside the MKZ hybrid. The cabin is spacious with enough room to accommodate five adults. The seats are upholstered in leather, while the front seats have climate control for optimal comfort. Cargo space is 11.8 cubic feet, slightly smaller than average due to the fact that the battery is stored in the trunk.

Lincoln engineers have included a great selection of safety features including airbags, child locks, traction control, ESC and 4-wheel disc brakes. The MKZ received four stars in side crash and rollover tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In addition, the MKZ also scores highly on the reliability meter with a score of 5.0 out of 5 from JD Power and Associates. Buyers also get peace of mind with a standard 50,000/4-year limited warranty.