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Lincoln MKZ: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 13, 2026
The Lincoln MKZ is a midsize luxury sedan built around quiet, easygoing comfort rather than sporty handling. It is known for generous equipment and a lineup that has included gas, strong twin-turbo V6, and fuel-saving hybrid versions.
The MKZ consistently favored a calm ride, a quiet cabin, and everyday comfort over a sharp sport-sedan feel. Over time, Lincoln added more safety technology, updated the cabin controls, and introduced a hybrid without changing that comfort-first character. The second generation brought sleeker styling and, after its 2017 refresh, a simpler touchscreen system and a powerful V6 option.
Strengths
- The quiet cabin and calm ride make the MKZ well suited to relaxed daily driving and long highway trips.
- Lincoln included plenty of comfort and safety equipment without limiting all of it to the highest trims.
- Driver-assist features became standard across the lineup for 2019, giving later cars a particularly broad safety package.
- The touchscreen system introduced with the 2017 refresh is easier to use than the touch-heavy controls in earlier second-generation cars.
- The 2020 hybrid was rated at 42 mpg in the city, making efficiency one of the MKZ’s clearest strengths.
- Later gas models ranged from 245 to 350 horsepower in 2020, so the lineup covered both ordinary commuting and stronger V6 performance.
Who it's for
The MKZ suits used-car shoppers who want a comfortable luxury sedan for commuting, road trips, and everyday driving without paying mainly for a sporty badge or aggressive handling. The hybrid is especially appealing to drivers who value fuel economy, while later V6 models fit buyers who want stronger acceleration without giving up the MKZ’s relaxed character.
Lincoln MKZ lineup
Trim names changed over the years, but the base or Standard models delivered the core MKZ comfort experience without requiring a top trim. Reserve models added a richer cabin and more premium equipment, while Reserve II sat above Reserve I in later years and became the home of the twin-turbo V6 for 2019. Hybrid and Hybrid Reserve models kept the same basic luxury focus while prioritizing fuel economy. From 2015, Black Label versions stood apart with themed interiors, upgraded leather, suede-like trim, and designer wood accents.
Lincoln MKZ generations
From 2009 to 2020, the MKZ spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation arrived for 2013, following the 1st Generation (2007–2012).
2nd Generation (2013–2020)
A full redesign brought a new body, interior, chassis, and a revamped hybrid system. The 2017 refresh added Continental-inspired front styling, simpler cabin controls, a newer touchscreen system, and a twin-turbo V6 on gas models.
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2020Trim changes
Minor equipment reshuffling and a simpler trim and package structure marked the MKZ’s final model year.
2019Trim changes
The lineup changed to Standard, Reserve I, and Reserve II trims. A driver-assist safety suite also became standard on every MKZ.
2018
Reserve models gained a standard Revel audio system, with only minor package and equipment reshuffling elsewhere.
2017Mid-cycle update
New front styling, revised cabin controls, and a newer touchscreen system arrived. Gas models also gained a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6.
2016
The gas, hybrid, and Black Label versions carried over without a meaningful lineup-wide update.
2015Trim changes
The Black Label version joined the gas lineup and later the hybrid lineup. A rearview camera and rear parking sensors became standard across the range.
2014
The redesigned body, gas and hybrid systems, and core cabin layout carried over.
2013New generation
The MKZ was fully redesigned with a new body, interior, and chassis. The hybrid received a new 2.0-liter system and lithium-ion battery.
1st Generation (2007–2012)
This generation centered on a 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic. A substantial 2010 refresh reworked the exterior and cabin, while the first MKZ Hybrid joined the range for 2011.
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2012
The V6 and hybrid models carried over in the final year before the 2013 redesign.
2011Trim changes
The first MKZ Hybrid joined the lineup with a 2.5-liter hybrid system, regenerative braking, and a fuel-use display.
2010Mid-cycle update
Lincoln updated the front and rear styling, redesigned the dashboard and center controls, improved cabin quietness, and fitted a new six-speed automatic.
2009
Electronic stability control became standard on every MKZ, but the overall design and powertrain carried over.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Lincoln MKZ.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of car is the Lincoln MKZ?
The Lincoln MKZ is a four-door midsize luxury sedan with seating for five. It favors a quiet cabin and a comfortable ride over sharp, sporty handling, making it more of a relaxed daily driver than a sport sedan.
What is the Lincoln MKZ known for?
The MKZ is known for calm ride comfort, a quiet cabin and generous safety and convenience equipment. Newer versions also have an easy-to-use 8-inch touchscreen, while the adaptive suspension helps smooth out rough pavement.
Who is the Lincoln MKZ a good fit for?
The MKZ suits someone who wants a comfortable luxury sedan without a strongly sporty personality. It seats five, has 37 inches of rear legroom in the latest lineup and offers gas or hybrid power for different driving priorities.
Does the Lincoln MKZ come as a hybrid?
Yes. The MKZ Hybrid joined the lineup for 2011 and continued through the final 2020 model year. Second-generation hybrids use a 2.0-liter gas-electric system and front-wheel drive, with quiet operation and better fuel economy as their focus.
What engines does the Lincoln MKZ have?
Engine choices depend on the era. Early MKZs centered on a V6, with a hybrid added for 2011. The second generation offered a turbo four-cylinder and a hybrid, while refreshed gas models also offered a stronger twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6.
How are the first- and second-generation Lincoln MKZ different?
The 2013 redesign began the second generation with a new body, interior, chassis and touch-heavy controls. A 2017 refresh then brought Continental-inspired front styling, revised cabin controls, a newer touchscreen system and a twin-turbo V6 option.
Do all Lincoln MKZs have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
No. These smartphone features are tied to newer MKZs with the SYNC 3 touchscreen, introduced with the 2017 refresh. Earlier second-generation cars have an 8-inch touchscreen but not the same newer interface.
Lincoln MKZ Reviews
What owners are saying about the Lincoln MKZ.
4.3
Lincoln MKZ
(1,986 reviews)
“Have now noticed a few issues w/car. Armrest controls too far forward. Transmission controls should not be next to touch screen entertainment module. Have often made changes to other functions ( ie.. eject cd, radio controls) when shifting gears or manipulating right side of touch screen. Suspension is very choppy at highway speeds if/when road conditions are rough or weather is windy.”
“The most fun car that I have ever driven. I get a little excited walking out to it in the morning and the same after work. I love the body style, the comfort and the color. This car changed me from being a "I only need a car to be reliable" type person to a person that loves driving their car.”
“Audio sound is unsatisfactory for the best sound system available for this car. Gas mileage on long drives is excellent, 40 mpg+. Around town driving is 36 mpg, less that advertised.”
“As an engineer working in the automotive field, there are several things I would have liked to see implemented a bit better, especially in the drive train.”
“It took a few days until I felt comfortable driving this car but the more I drive the more I love it.....it handles nicely, a smooth ride and the inside is very quiet.”
Sources
- media.lincoln.com — 11 / 17 / Lincoln Black Label Elevates Craftsmanship Quality Service
- media.lincoln.com — Lna / Us / 2017 Lincoln Mkz
- media.lincoln.com — Product / 2016 / 17MKZ TechSpecs
- media.lincoln.com — 02 / 25 / Adding Lincoln Black Label To 2015 Lincoln Mkz Hybrid Elevates
- media.lincoln.com — Black Label / Fact Sheets / Lincoln Black Label Fact Sheet MKZ Center Stage
- media.lincoln.com — Black Label / Fact Sheets / Lincoln Black Label Fact Sheet MKZ Indulgence
- media.lincoln.com — 06 / 16 / 2014 Lincoln Mkz Named A Best Value By Usaa
- media.lincoln.com — 03 / 19 / Intelligent Suspension System Of Lincoln Mkz Can Help Mitigate P