2013 Lincoln MKZ: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2013 Lincoln MKZ is a full redesign and the first year of the sedan’s second generation. Its new body, cabin, chassis, and powertrains make this a major change from the 2012 model.
About the 2013 Lincoln MKZ
2nd generation, first year of the redesign
Lincoln presents the 2013 MKZ as a design-led midsize luxury sedan centered on quiet comfort, standout styling, and a modern, technology-heavy cabin. The brand’s launch messaging leans on elegant design, a calm interior, standard digital interfaces, and a smoother, more controlled ride through Lincoln Drive Control. Versus many rivals, the MKZ’s pitch is less about sharp sport-sedan behavior and more about distinctive looks, everyday comfort, and a strong feature set, with the Hybrid adding major efficiency without changing the car’s upscale character.
Lincoln positioned the gas MKZ as a well-equipped luxury sedan even in base form, with heated leather-trimmed seats, adaptive LED headlights, and an adaptive suspension. The MKZ Hybrid pairs the same redesigned cabin and comfort focus with a 2.0-liter hybrid system, a lithium-ion battery, and a display that helps the driver monitor efficient driving.
What changed, by category
2013 Lincoln MKZ specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0L / V6, 3.7 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd w/SelShft | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 19–22 mpg | 38 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28–33 mpg | 37 mpg |
| Horsepower | 240–300 hp | |
| Torque | 270–277 lb-ft | 129 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.4 cu-ft | 11.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37 in | 37 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Cooled Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2013 Lincoln MKZ a redesigned model?
Yes. The 2013 Lincoln MKZ is the first year of the second generation, with a new body, cabin, chassis setup, and updated powertrains.
How did the 2013 MKZ’s gas engines change from 2012?
The 2013 gas MKZ replaces the previous V6-only base setup with a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. A stronger 3.7-liter V6 serves as the other gas-engine option.
What changed on the 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid?
The 2013 MKZ Hybrid gets a new 2.0-liter hybrid system and a lithium-ion battery in place of the older nickel-metal-hydride pack. It also gains the redesigned body, interior, chassis, and digital cabin used across the 2013 lineup.
What technology became standard on the 2013 Lincoln MKZ?
The 2013 MKZ makes a 10.1-inch digital instrument display, an 8-inch touchscreen, push-button gear selection, remote start, adaptive LED headlights, and an adaptive suspension standard across the lineup.
Is the 2013 Lincoln MKZ a major change from the 2012 model?
Yes. The 2013 MKZ is a full redesign rather than a light update, so it differs from the 2012 model in its styling, cabin layout, chassis, engines, hybrid system, and standard technology.