Go ahead and say it: Mark Z. That's how you pronounce MKZ, and that's what they're calling the Lincoln Zephyr from now on.
Lincoln sees its newly-named mid-sized product among the top American luxury sedans, and sure enough, it is a pretty car that offers a quiet, comfortable ride and a fine array of standard equipment. Its beauty is especially noted on the interior, for which it has won accolades in the industry.
The MKZ FWD holds 263 horses under its hood, in the form of a 3.5-liter V6; this is an increase of 42 horses and a half-liter. With a 6-speed automatic transmission calling the shots, the FWD delivers about 19 city miles and 27 highway miles to the gallon.
But despite that somewhat large engine, the sedan is very quiet, thanks to Lincoln's efforts to make it so by building it with a good degree of sound-deadening material. Even the roughest roads won't cause you to turn up the stereo - which, by the way, could be done from the convenient controls mounted on the handsome leather-and-wood steering wheel (the other wheel-mounted buttons control cruise and climate).
Other standard features include premium leather seating: the front row has 10-way power-adjust, 2-way power lumbar support, and heaters; you can also opt for front seat coolers. The power side mirrors are also heated, for your safety and convenience in harsh winter weather.
Some exterior touches really catch the eye: the 17-inch spoked aluminum wheels, the quad halogen headlights, and the chrome-finished dual exhaust. The back bumper sits almost flush against the body, lending the clean look that Lincoln sought.
Backseat passengers will be comfortable with ample space and a useful leather armrest. They'll be even more comfortable with optional back seat heaters, but back seat coolers are not available. The trunk has plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or whatever you need to carry.
Safety is paramount, too, and ABS, dual-stage front air bags, side air bags, remote keyless entry, an anti-theft system, and traction control all come standard. You can load your MKZ with options such as a 14-speaker/600-watt audio system, satellite radio, a power moonroof, chrome wheels, a satin-nickel aluminum package, and a DVD-based navigation system.
