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Overall Rating
The new Lincoln MKZ has rather humble roots. It is an understated luxury sedan that is conservative but at the same time, manages to have a personality of its own. The overall feel of the Lincoln MKZ is robust and relaxing.
The new Lincoln MKZ has rather humble roots. It is an understated luxury sedan that is conservative but at the same time, manages to have a personality of its own. The overall feel of the Lincoln MKZ is robust and relaxing. Its base model is priced at $39,035 and is offered in a 2.0-liter Inline-4 engine which has a power output of 245hp and provides a combined mileage of 23MPG. Additionally, it can accommodate five passengers with the utmost comfort. We will now shift our focus to all the important features that characterize the 2018 Lincoln MKZ in the subsequent segments.
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ is offered in four trims however, it is wisest to choose the Reserve trim for it not only includes a plethora of advanced features in addition to the standard essential features which makes the ride interesting but it also comes at an affordable price, making the trim the best one.
Reserve I 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Select 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Black Label 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Reserve 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Black Label 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The new Lincoln MKZ has rather humble roots. It is an understated luxury sedan that is conservative but at the same time, manages to have a personality of its own. The overall feel of the Lincoln MKZ is robust and relaxing.
The new Lincoln MKZ has rather humble roots. It is an understated luxury sedan that is conservative but at the same time, manages to have a personality of its own. The overall feel of the Lincoln MKZ is robust and relaxing. Its base model is priced at $39,035 and is offered in a 2.0-liter Inline-4 engine which has a power output of 245hp and provides a combined mileage of 23MPG. Additionally, it can accommodate five passengers with the utmost comfort. We will now shift our focus to all the important features that characterize the 2018 Lincoln MKZ in the subsequent segments.
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ is offered in four trims namely Premier, Select, Reserve, and Black Label. These trims are offered in three engine options viz, the turbocharged V6, Inline-4, and hybrid. However, presently we would focus our attention on the Inline-4 engine.
The base trim of the Lincoln MKZ Premier starts at a price of $39,035 whereas, the highest trim, the Black Label is priced at $54,230. Although many of the advanced features are made standard as one moves up a trim, the difference in the ride is made evident with the introduction of the optional features.
Trim |
Premier |
Select |
Reserve |
Black Label |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$39,035 |
$42,550 |
$46,560 |
$54,230 |
Key Features |
Synthetic leather seats |
Leather upholstery |
Perforated leather seats |
Venetian leather seats |
SYNC 3 infotainment interface |
A 110-volt household-style power outlet |
A voice-activated navigation system |
20-speaker Revel audio system |
|
Dual-zone automatic climate control |
Wood trim |
Blind Spot Monitoring |
||
Rear parking sensors |
Ambient lighting |
Rear cross-traffic alert |
||
A proximity key with remote start |
Auto-dimming power-folding side mirrors |
Power trunk lid |
||
Leather-wrapped steering wheel |
Two rear-seat USB charging ports |
Heated and cooled front seats |
||
10-way power-adjustable heated front seats with lumbar support |
||||
A push-button start |
We Recommend
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ is offered in four trims however, it is wisest to choose the Reserve trim for it not only includes a plethora of advanced features in addition to the standard essential features which makes the ride interesting but it also comes at an affordable price, making the trim the best one.
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ is offered in a 2.0-liter turbocharged Inline-4 engine which delivers a power output of 245hp and produces 275 lb-ft torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission and functions on an all-wheel-drive drivetrain.
Moreover, the engine provides substantial thrust on the road. However, even though the engine is not the most exciting to drive on, it still manages to feel competent.
Models |
Lincoln MKZ |
Lexus ES 350 Sedan |
Acura TLX Sedan |
---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$39,035 |
$38,950 |
$33,600 |
Engine |
2.0L l4 |
3.5L V6 |
2.4L l4 |
Transmission |
6-speed shiftable automatic |
6-speed shiftable automatic |
8-speed automated manual |
Drivetrain |
AWD |
FWD |
FWD |
Horsepower |
245 hp @ 5500 rpm |
286hp @ 6200 rpm |
206hp @ 6800 rpm |
Torque |
275 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm |
248 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm |
The data states that even though the engines generate an adequate output of power to facilitate the smooth functioning of their respective models, the Lexus ES 350 with its V6 engine generates the maximum power output making it the strongest engine in the segment whereas, the Acura TLX is relatively the weaker engine in comparison to its rivals.
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ doesn’t provide the best acceleration. It reaches 0-60 MPH in about 6.1 seconds and takes 14.6 seconds to reach its quarter-mile. Despite the fact that the acceleration is slower than most of its rivals in the market and it is not the most agile model, the 2018 Lincoln MKZ feels peppy. Nevertheless, the Lincoln MKZ disappoints due to the presence of a muffling sound irrespective of the fact that it is supposed to be a luxury sedan.
Models |
Lincoln MKZ |
Lexus ES 350 Sedan |
Acura TLX Sedan |
---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
6.1 sec |
6.1 sec |
6.0 sec |
Quarter mile |
14.6 sec |
14.6 sec |
14.5 sec |
Engine |
2.0L l4 |
3.5L V6 |
2.4L l4 |
It is evident that the acceleration rate and speed are somewhat similar among the models in question which implies that none of the models are fast with reference to their speed. However, the Acura TLX is negligibly faster than its rivals.
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ provides a comfortable ride to its passenger despite not being too entertaining as a car. The steering attempts to make the driver feel more connected to the road but it fails to do so as the steering occasionally feels numb and disconnects the driver’s sync from the road. In terms of handling, the 2018 Lincoln MKZ comes standard with an adaptive suspension which comes in a composed manner. However, on a more positive note, the Lincoln MKZ handles curves well.
The braking performance of the 2018 Lincoln MKZ is somewhat average. Although the braking functions are responsive and smooth, having a strong connection with the pedals giving control to the drivers, it takes quite some time to come to a stop. The 2018 Lincoln MKZ covers a distance of 130 feet to come at a stop from 60-0MPH.
Model |
Lincoln MKZ |
Lexus ES 350 Sedan |
Acura TLX Sedan |
---|---|---|---|
Brake Front (in.) |
13.9 |
11.6 |
12.6 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
13.6 |
11.0 |
12.2 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
4702 |
3571 |
3505 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
130 |
110 |
118 |
From the data, it is evident that the Lincoln MKZ has a relatively very poor braking performance. It covers the maximum distance from reaching 0-60MPH in comparison to its rivals, whereas, the Lexus ES 350 takes the least time and covers the least distance to come to a stop swiftly.
It is foolish to expect excellent mileage from luxury sedans but despite that, the 2018 Lincoln MKZ gets decent mileage. It provides a mileage of 20MPH within city ranges, 28 MPH on the highways and combined mileage of 23 MPH. These figures are considered to be moderate keeping in mind it is a luxury sedan.
Model |
Lincoln MKZ |
Lexus ES 350 Sedan |
Acura TLX Sedan |
---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
20 |
21 |
23 |
MPG (highway) |
28 |
30 |
33 |
MPG (combined) |
23 |
24 |
27 |
Fuel Capacity (gallons) |
18.0 |
17.2 |
17.2 |
The Lincoln MKZ doesn’t fare too well in terms of the mileage it produces when in comparison with its rivals. It is the least fuel-efficient sedan in the segment. The Acura TLX on the other hand is the most fuel-efficient model providing the maximum mileage.
The interiors of the 2018 Lincoln MKZ is probably the most criticized aspect of the model. The interior of the Lincoln MKZ is straight-up disappointing. The cabin looks plain and it hardly imbibes within itself the upscale feel. The interiors are mostly made up of matte plastics which look cheap and the overall styling resembles a lot like that of the Ford Fusion.Â
Moreover, synthetic upholstery feels quite out of place. The front seats are somewhat supportive and comfortable, but the same couldn’t be said for the rear seats which feel hard and uncomfortable. The rear seats might also appear cramped for taller passengers.
Model |
Lincoln MKZ |
Lexus ES 350 Sedan |
Acura TLX Sedan |
---|---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
37.9/57.7/44.3 |
37.5/57.6/41.9 |
37.2/57.5/42.6 |
Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
36.6/55.3/37.0 |
37.5/55.0/40.0 |
36.7/55.4/34.5 |
It is evident that the Lincoln MKZ offers the maximum space to its occupants, especially in terms of the first row. The rear row feels a little compact, no doubt. The Lexus ES 350 provides similar space but it is a little less than the Lincoln whereas, the Acura TLX is the least spacious model in this segment. The main interior features of the 2018 Lincoln MKZ include:
The infotainment unit is one of the strong suits of the 2018 Lincoln MKZ. It comes with the standard SYNC3 infotainment system which is quite responsive and easy to use. However, every now and then, the interface might feel a little clunky. The centerfold of the infotainment unit contains an 8.0-inch display which is quite accessible to the occupants. Additionally, the Lincoln MKZ comes equipped with 11 speakers Revel Premium Brand Speakers music system. Some of the main infotainment features of the 2018 Lincoln MKZ include:
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ doesn’t disappoint in terms of its cargo capacity. The Lincoln MKZ offers a cargo capacity of 15.4 cubic feet which is best suited for storing small items. Additionally, the rear seats could be folded for transporting longer and bulkier items.Â
Model |
Lincoln MKZ |
Lexus ES 350 Sedan |
Acura TLX Sedan |
---|---|---|---|
Cargo Volume (ft.3) |
15.4 |
15.2 |
14.3 |
From the data, it is evident that the Lincoln MKZ provides the maximum cargo space to its occupants. The Lexus ES 350 comes next in terms of cargo capacity, whereas, the Acura TLX provides the least amount of cargo capacity and comes last.Â
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ screams luxury from the outside. It is generously curated with a smooth cut design profile that is impossible to miss on the roads. The exteriors of the Lincoln MKZ can be said to be inspired by the Audi A5 however, Lincoln has very smartly managed to infuse the design to make it resemble its own.
The tail tapers into a conventional rear infused with LED tail lights which feel subtle. Additionally, it has rectangular grilles and the model comes in a range of exterior colors, the best among which are the daring blues and the red hues offered by the brand.
Model |
Lincoln MKZ |
Lexus ES 350 Sedan |
Acura TLX Sedan |
---|---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
4702 |
3571 |
3505 |
Length(in) |
193.9 |
193.3 |
190.7 |
Width(in) |
73.4 |
71.7 |
73.0 |
Height(in) |
58.1 |
57.1 |
57.0 |
Ground clearance (in) |
5.9 |
6.1 |
5.8 |
Wheelbase (in) |
112.2 |
111.0 |
109.3 |
From the data, it is evident that the Lincoln MKZ is not only the biggest model in this segment, but it is also the heaviest model. The Lexus ES 350 comes next and it has the maximum ground clearance but the Acura TLX loses out for being the smallest model in the segment. Moreover, the Acura TLX is also the lightest model in comparison to its rivals. The main exterior features of the 2018 Lincoln MKZ include:
The new Lincoln MKZ has seemingly performed well in the crash testings conducted by both the NHTSA and the IIHS. It has received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA whereas, the IIHS has rated the Lincoln MKZ an overall “good” score. The 2018 Lincoln MKZ has been equipped with all the necessary active and passive safety features such as strategically placed airbags, pretensioners, a rearview camera, parking assists, and so on. Some of the important safety features of the 2018 Lincoln MKZ are:
The Lexus ES 350 is a great pick if one is looking for luxury sedan shoppers especially for those with families. The cabin provides a superior feel and looks in comparison to the Lincoln MKZ and it is everything you can expect from a luxury vehicle, and the ride is also quite comfortable. Additionally, the Lexus ES 350 has also scored highly in terms of the safety ratings, as has the Lincoln MKZ but the Lexus ES is an overall more pragmatic choice.
The new Acura TLX and Lincoln MKZ have similar features but the Acura TLX can be considered to be marginally better. This holds true especially in terms of the interiors of the Acura TLX which has a well-built cabin that features premium materials throughout, Moreover, the seats are also comfortable even though the Lincoln MKZ is more spacious. Unfortunately, the TLX doesn’t have a user-friendly infotainment system but it makes up with its other advanced features.
The 2018 Lincoln MKZ attempted to be a wholesome car providing all the essential features working in sync with one another. However, reality deviates from their attempt. The Lincoln MKZ undoubtedly had potential but it fell flat. It offers good, intuitive features but it fails to keep up to the level of enthusiasm that the model promises. Despite its flaws, the 2018 Lincoln MKZ offers a moderate acceleration and has a responsive infotainment unit. However, if one is spending money on purchasing a luxury sedan, the smart choice would be to choose another model from the market.