2012 Lincoln MKZ: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Lincoln MKZ is largely a carryover, with no major mechanical, styling, safety, or structural changes. Its one notable update is SYNC AppLink on some cars, though it was not standard across the lineup.
About the 2012 Lincoln MKZ
1st generation MKZ, final year, after the major 2010 update and just before the all-new 2013 redesign.
Lincoln positioned the MKZ as a quiet, comfort-first midsize luxury sedan with more emphasis on calm driving, upscale materials, and easy everyday features than on sharp handling. The brochure leans heavily on peace and quiet, leather seating, wood trim, and voice-control tech, while the Hybrid adds standout fuel economy without giving up the same premium feel. For most shoppers, the MKZ’s appeal is simple: a roomy, smooth Lincoln sedan that feels plush and easy to live with.
The gas MKZ remained the traditional comfort-focused version, pairing a 263-hp 3.5-liter V6 with leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and heated and cooled front seats. The efficiency-focused MKZ Hybrid used a 191-hp gas-electric system and added an EcoGuide driving display while retaining the same upscale seating features.
What changed, by category
2012 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 | 18 mpg | 41 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 263 hp | |
| Torque | 249 lb-ft | 135 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.5 cu-ft | 11.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.5 in | 36.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Cooled Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Lincoln MKZ compared with the 2011 model?
Very little changed for 2012. The MKZ kept the prior year’s basic design, powertrains, safety equipment, and luxury features; the main update was SYNC AppLink on some cars.
Did every 2012 Lincoln MKZ have SYNC AppLink?
No, SYNC AppLink was not standard across the 2012 MKZ lineup. It appeared on some cars, so its presence should be checked on the individual vehicle.
Did the 2012 Lincoln MKZ powertrains change?
No, the powertrains carried over. The gas MKZ retained its 263-hp 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, while the MKZ Hybrid kept its 191-hp gas-electric system and continuously variable automatic transmission.
Was 2012 the final year before the Lincoln MKZ redesign?
Yes, 2012 was the final model year of this version of the MKZ. A fully redesigned MKZ arrived for 2013.
Is the 2012 Lincoln MKZ meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
No, the 2012 MKZ is not meaningfully different from the 2011 model in design or mechanical equipment. The main year-specific distinction is SYNC AppLink on some 2012 cars.