Once again, Ford is attempting to kick start its troubled Lincoln brand, this time with the presentation of the all-new 2013 MKZ sedan that will go on sale in North America in the fall following its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show later this week.
Lincoln promises that the 2013 MKZ is much more than a glorified Ford Fusion, despite the fact that the two cars share the same platform architecture, a similar engine lineup and various systems.
To differentiate the two models and help the MKZ compete against established models in the executive mid-size segment like the BMW 3-Series and the Audi A4, Lincoln will offer its sedan model with a V6 engine as well (the Fusion is available only with four-cylinder engines) and exclusive technologies.
These include a standard Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension with three modes (Sport/Normal/Comfort), an optional 15.2-square-foot panoramic roof that slides back and a Push Button automatic transmission.The MKZ is the brand's first model to be created by a dedicated team at its new Lincoln Design Studio under the supervision of Max Wolff, who was hired from Cadillac.
The interior and exterior styling has remained true for the most part to the Detroit Motor Show concept, sans some minor updates such as the door handles, the larger mirror housings, and the shape of the boot lid.
“The exterior’s front graphic is repeated in the dramatic sweep of the new instrument panel, helping tie the interior to the exterior in a harmonious manner," said Wolff. "These flowing forms – along with the open center console – create a comfortable and functional interior that particularly appeals to younger, more diverse drivers we believe will now consider Lincoln."
The new MKZ will launch with a choice of three engines including a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost unit producing 240-horsepower and 270 lb-ft, and returning an estimated 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
The second option is a 3.7-liter V6 with 300hp and 277 lb-ft rated at 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the third model is a hybrid that links a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine to an electric motor producing a combined output of 188hp (fuel economy ratings are pending).
The 2.0L Turbo and 3.7L V6 engines utilize a six-speed automatic transmission and are offered in both front- and all-wheel drive variants, while the hybrid model is available exclusively with front-wheel drive and a CVT (continuously variable transmission).
Among other features, the 2013 MKZ will come fitted as standard with SYNC and MyLincoln Touch, an 11-speaker entertainment system and cabin air filtration, plus heated front seats (with the driver's featuring 10-way power controls), remote start capabilities, Active Noise Control and full LCD instrumentation.
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