Pros: Lincoln’s MKZ is available as either a hybrid or as a gasoline model. Both vehicles are priced the same. A pricier AWD model equipped with a six cylinder engine is available. The smooth riding MKZ offers an artfully crafted exterior design, which reminds of us an airplane on wheels. In fact, when outfitted with the optional oversize panoramic roof, it’s almost like providing a direct connection to heaven. In fact, the power glass panel roof slides so far back, it’s almost like converting the luxury vehicle to a convertible four door.
In addition to the open air skyroof to heaven, the MKZ can be accessorized with host of high-tech safety aids as we noted in the “Upgraded Optional Features On The Test Model” section. The midsize luxury vehicle can be outfitted with everything from massaging front seats to a radar-activated cruise control system to MyLincoln Touch infotainment smartphone-like system to an automated parallel park system. In our eyes, for a price tag that is barely reaching $50,000, the MKZ is a value priced vehicle.
Furthermore, the MKZ has a projected long-term predicted dependability rating from the consumer driven JD Power rating survey of four out of five stars.
Cons: These days the stylish MKZ finds itself in a precarious position. It’s not quite in the same league as Hyundai’s 2015 Genesis or BMW’s 2014 5-Series nor does it seem quite fitting to compare it against such near luxury vehicles as Acura’s 2015 TLX or Audi’s 2014 A4. Yes, we’re not sure exactly what to slot it against. It could even go head-to-head with a fully loaded Impala or the 2014 Hyundai Genesis.
Even while we’re trying to position in the luxury arena or the near luxury arena, the MKZ just lacks the refinement with its interior design we’ve come to expect from luxury vehicles. For instance, items like the free flowing hard plastic center stack and console doesn’t offer the same level of quality, workmanship and the attention to detail, as found in most of GM makes, which rivals many of the European and German models. With that said, Lincoln should consider taking some serious interior styling cues from the domestic automaker Cadillac, giving the vehicle more of a premium, luxury car feel.
Moreover, Lincoln’s smartphone-like MyLincoln Touch infotainment system, which forces the users to operate everything from the ventilated seats to the navigation system — without the use of buttons or knobs could be somewhat cumbersome. The reality is that most buyers just are not quite ready to be dragged kicking and screaming into the technical age. As a side note, to address the knob-less smartphone like infotainment system, Lincoln is integrating buttons and knobs into their system for the 2015 model year.
Lastly, while we welcome the retractable open air roof, selecting that option means that one will have to opt out of the power rear window sunshade. Conversely, by selecting the standard size roof means rear passengers will have access to a rear power sunshade to block the sun. However, the standard roof doesn’t have the same eye appeal.
Verdict: While the MKS is officially the flagship vehicle for the brand, it essentially similar in size to the well-equipped and head turning MKZ. Ironically, the awkwardly positioned MKZ is so automated with the latest safety driving aids it is indeed capable of wearing the flagship title for the brand. With the MKZ being so closely associated with the dated design of the MKS, neither one of the vehicles are truly seen as first tier luxury models, when placed up against true luxury competitors. As Lincoln is struggling to find its way in reclaiming its place in the luxury arena, buyers should have no problem snatching up a fuel-sipping hybrid or an all-wheel drive MKZ packed with the latest high tech gadgets, at a healthy discount.
Competition: Acura RLX; Buick LaCrosse; Cadillac XTS; Chevrolet Impala; Chrysler 300; Infiniti Q50; Lexus 350; Mercedes C-Class; and Volvo S60
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Jeff Fortson is an auto analyst and editor of a car-buying website for women and minorities. To learn more about his popular car-buying workshop and/or to price a new-vehicle, drive on over to www.JeffCars.com. Follow him on Twitter/JeffCars.
