The car formerly known as the Lincoln Zephyr made its debut under that name in 2006 after not earning the expected level of success under its previous name, the LS. The Lincoln Zephyr did not even get a chance to be a sophomore, as it was given its new name, MKZ, for the 2007 model year.
This new name is part of Lincoln's move to phase in to an all-letters naming scheme for its products, minus the Navigator and Town Car, that they hope will help to distinguish it from Ford Motors' other makes and also help to attract younger buyers. Along with its updated moniker, the car received larger doses of style and power.
The MKZ is quite similar to its sibling cars, the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, but it is more powerful (263 horsepower vs. 221), plus it is available in an all-wheel drive trim while the others are not. There is no outwardly visible difference between this car and the 2006 Zephyr, aside from minor changes to the grille and front bumper. The sedan's competition includes the Toyota Avalon, the Volvo S60, and the VW Passat.
The plush-riding MKZ has won accolades specifically for its interior design, earning an award for the Best Premium Car Interior, as chosen by voters from the auto industry as well as automotive publishing. Lincoln put in lots of sound-deadening to keep the ride nice and quiet.
Highlights on the MKZ's list of standard equipment include 10-way, power-adjustable leather front seats, chrome-finished dual exhaust, automatic climate control, and 17-inch spoked wheels. Available options include seat coolers, a 14-speaker/600-watt audio system, and an upgraded interior trim package. It comes in 10 exterior colors and 3 interior colors.
