2011 Lincoln MKZ: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big change for the 2011 Lincoln MKZ is the arrival of the first MKZ Hybrid. The regular V6 model carries over without a major mechanical or styling update following the 2010 refresh.
About the 2011 Lincoln MKZ
1st gen MKZ (2007-2012), second year after the 2010 refresh; first year for the MKZ Hybrid.
Lincoln markets the 2011 MKZ as a quiet, comfort-first midsize luxury sedan with a generous standard feature list. The pitch leans on leather, real wood, heated and cooled seats, voice-activated SYNC, and a hushed cabin more than sport-sedan aggression. What sets it apart is that it delivers traditional Lincoln comfort and upscale materials in a more manageable midsize package, with the new Hybrid adding a strong efficiency angle without changing that luxury-first personality.
The 2011 lineup has two distinct versions: a traditional luxury sedan with a 263-horsepower V6 and a fuel-economy-focused Hybrid. Both emphasize comfort with leather upholstery, real wood trim, and heated and cooled power front seats, while the Hybrid adds a digital efficiency display and regenerative braking.
What changed, by category
2011 Lincoln MKZ specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/SelectShift | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 41 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 263 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 249 lb-ft | 136 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.5 cu-ft | 11.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.5 in | 36.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Cooled Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 Lincoln MKZ?
The biggest change is the addition of the first Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. It brings a 2.5-liter gas-electric powertrain, regenerative braking, and a digital display focused on efficient driving.
Did the regular V6 Lincoln MKZ change for 2011?
No major mechanical or styling changes were made to the regular 2011 Lincoln MKZ. It carries over after the 2010 refresh with a 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission.
How is the 2011 MKZ Hybrid different from the V6 model?
The 2011 MKZ Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter gas-electric system and an electronic continuously variable transmission, while the regular model has a 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic. The Hybrid also adds regenerative braking and the SmartGauge with EcoGuide efficiency display.
Does the 2011 MKZ Hybrid still have the luxury features of the gas model?
Yes. The 2011 MKZ Hybrid retains leather upholstery, real wood trim, and heated and cooled 10-way power front seats with driver memory, giving it a similar upscale cabin to the V6 model.
Is the 2011 Lincoln MKZ a redesign?
No. The 2011 MKZ is not a redesign; it is the second model year after the 2010 refresh. Its main update is the addition of the Hybrid trim.