Essentially unchanged from 2010, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ represents a solid, semi-luxurious midsize sedan. Once more available in a single Base trim level, this five-passenger family car can be delivered with either the standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or with full-time all-wheel drive (AWD). Both drivetrains are based on a variable-valve-timed V6 engine with accompanying six-speed auto-manual transmission, and both come decently laden with standard state-of-the-art techno gizmos, leather upholstery, 17-inch alloy wheels and upscale cabin appointments, not to mention a quasi-cavernous 16.5 cubic feet of trunk space. Though there are those who think of this valiant sedan as simply an overpriced Ford Fusion or Mercury Milan, the Lincoln name still retains enough cachet to lure prospective buyers of the MKZ from the likes of the Lexus ES 350, Infiniti G37 and Cadillac CTS. Though not considered quite as refined as its Japanese and GM competition, the MKZ is nonetheless regarded as a superior value. Additionally, look for a new Hybrid MKZ early in 2011.

A single powerplant and transmission are available for both the 2011 MKZ Base FWD and AWD configurations. Power is provided by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, and brains by a six-speed auto-manual transmission. The pairing nets 263 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque, while variable valve timing allows 18/27 mpg in the FWD MKZ and 17/24 in the AWD version.

Acknowledged strengths of the 2011 MKZ include its plethora of standard and available techno-gadgetry, as well as its cabin comfort and convenience touches. Premium leather upholstery, power adjustable, multi-level heated front seats and dual-zone climate control head the list of standard features, complemented by one-touch power windows, digital keypad power door locks, heated outside mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, telescoping tilt-wheel steering, universal remote garage door opener, driver memory settings, 6-CD changer with nine speakers, Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless phone technology and a USB connection. Options for this well-heeled family sedan, meanwhile, include 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, a power moonroof, voice-activated DVD navigation and the 600-watt THX II Premium Certified audio system with 5.1 surround sound and 14 speakers, including a subwoofer. Many of these choice offerings are included with the highly touted Sport Appearance Package, with its sport-tuned suspension and beefed-up stabilizer bars.

Expected to repeat its solid safety scores, the 2011 MKZ is delivered with standard four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, dual front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, rear parking sensors and a post-collision safety system. A safety option is the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), featuring a rearview camera and cross-traffic alert sensors.

Reasonably well received in 2010, the Lincoln MKZ does present a number of owner issues, including the unavailability of Ford’s Active Parking Assist and its popular EcoBoost turbocharged engine, a disappointingly gauche prop-rod hood support and lack of push-button start. Though considered comfortable enough, the over-placid cabin ambiance and dearth of interior color selections also have some owners of the 2010 MKZ wondering where the promised luxury went. On a more positive note, however, virtually all owners compliment the MKZ’s comfortable ride, plush seating, plethora of cabin goodies, attractive styling, tolerable fuel efficiency and surprisingly spiffy handling, especially with the available Sport Appearance Package.