The Lincoln MKZ is finally coming into its own. After several years during which the car's name changed not once but twice (from the Lincoln LS to the Lincoln Zephyr to the MKZ, a name adopted for the 2007 model year), the mid-size luxury vehicle is now taking center stage in Lincoln's effort to win over entry-level buyers (and win back buyers who have defected to other brands).

The MKZ is a good standard-bearer for the company. Rather than sporting a forgettable design, typical of some Lincolns of the past, the MKZ stands out in a crowd with a crisp, lean look that incorporates retro elements and a wide, grinning "waterfall" front grille that is impossible to miss or ignore. All in all, it's a design that is fresh and contemporary, and one that stands up to the best from the imports.

For 2008, Lincoln is sweetening the pot by offering the MKZ with a number of new standard features that help clinch the car's status as a luxury sedan. Among those new features are premium leather seats that are power-adjustable and heated in the front, as well as cooled (which was an option the previous year). Also standard for 2008 is a tire pressure monitoring system, Sirius satellite radio, and a Reverse Sensing System that assists drivers when parking with rear audible alerts.

Later in the 2008 model year, Lincoln will also add the new Sync system as standard equipment. Developed by Ford/Lincoln in conjunction with Microsoft, it provides a hand's-free, voice-activated communication system for mobile phones and the audio system, as well as the optional navigation system.

As in previous years, the MKZ is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions. Both are powered by a 263-horsepower Duratec V6 engine that is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth, barely perceptible shifting to help improve fuel efficiency. In addition, four-wheel independent suspension provides responsive handling and a nimble ride.