Zero to 60: THE NO-BRAINER
Increased fuel efficiency. That's what it's all about now, isn't it? And the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid has by far the most beneficial difference in MPG from the standard version of the vehicle. Getting well over 20 miles city and 10 miles highway of increased fuel efficiency at the same price as the gasoline engine makes the hybrid version a no-brainer for consumers. The Lincoln MKZ hybrid can get over 700 miles on a single fuel tank, which is pretty impressive for a hybrid sedan. It's got some great features, as well: Let's dive a little deeper.​



Three60:
The MKZ is the first hybrid vehicle that Lincoln has brought to market. The EPA-certified 41 mpg rating for city driving makes the MKZ hybrid one of the most fuel efficient sedans on the market. Also, with a price point under $35,000, this fuel efficient model is worth the price for consumers. Kate Pearce, Lincoln marketing manager states, “Lincoln MKZ Hybrid shows that consumers don’t have to sacrifice luxury to own a green vehicle. You’ll find an unusual amount of standard luxury features that are hard to find on a hybrid.” The MKZ Hybrid tops its nearest competitor, the Lexus HS 250h, by six MPG. It also outranks this Lexus with a higher net horsepower, more passenger space, a more enhanced interior, and more exclusive safety features. J.D. Power and Associates named Lincoln as the top brand for 2011 based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles. They polled the 43,700 original owners on problems experiences over 12 months on 2008 model year vehicles after three years of ownership, and out of 35 brands polled, Lincoln had the lowest number of problems.​



The economic price point and brand reliability aren’t all that this MKZ Hybrid has to offer. The 2012 model uses the 2.5 liter Atkinson-Cycle I-4 Hybrid engine, named one of Ward’s 2010 best engines. The system has the best conjunction of both gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors. The award winning system delivers optimal performance with unsurpassed fuel economy. This combined engine provides best-in-class 191 net horsepower with a pure-electric mode of up to 47 miles. Lincoln did not stop their commitment to protecting the environment with what is under the hood - both the hybrid and standard version of the car are made from numerous recycled materials. The genuine wood appliqués are created from well-managed forests as defined by strict environmental standards. The Bridge of Weird luxury leather uses a chromium-free, organic tanning process and provides environmentally stable byproducts which are recyclable at the end of its life. Also, the tires and battery casings are made from post-consumer plastics and recycled resins.



The technology inside of the MKZ hybrid is sure to not disappoint drivers - the features that come standard in this vehicle are not standard on most other luxury cars... The SmartGauge with EcoGuide technology provides real-time information to help drivers optimize fuel efficiency, coaching them on how to maximize the vehicle’s performance. The SmartGauge technology also gives drivers enhanced feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the growth of virtual flowers, inspired by apple blossoms. Both the standard and hybrid version of the car are equipped with Lincoln SYNC, an innovated technology that provides links to contacts and information, which can be linked to Bluetooth, audible text, and MP3 capabilities. This system also allows drivers to access Vehicle Health Reports and 911 Assist. The voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology, and hands-free mobile phone systems make it easy for consumers to effortlessly access information while driving. The GPS system provides personalized traffic reports, turn by turn directions, and up to date business listings. The option to add a Blind Spot Information System allows drivers to access cross-traffic alerts which help detect cars approaching in driver’s blind spots. The 2012 models now offer the SYNC AppLink for the first time. This software allows the driver to voice-control smartphone applications through the vehicle. The stereo system inside of these cars is also a pretty impressive selling point. The Lincoln Premium Sound System features nine speakers, an auxiliary jack, and a pre-paid six month subscription to XM radio. Consumers can upgrade to the Lincoln TXH II certified Audio System with 5.1 surround sound - Lincoln is the only car maker in the world to offer this package.  Rain-sensing windshield wipers are available as an upgrade - this feature, however, is standard on many other luxury hybrids.



Power driver seats with memory settings, heated and cooled front seats, keyless entry keypads, and EasyFuel are all standard features on the 2012 MKZ models. The EasyFuel package is a capless fuel filler that is a Lincoln exclusive feature that uses an integrated spring loaded flapper door that eliminates the need to screw the fuel tank cap in place. The MKZ fleet is equipped with Personal Safety Systems that offer seven protection technologies that work in unison to protect the vehicle and it’s occupants. The AdvancTrac electronic stability control is designed to maintain steering control and directional stability in adverse driving conditions. And we can't forget MyKey: another Lincoln-exclusive feature that allows drivers to limit speed and audio volume to encourage more responsible driving.



THE BOTTOM LINE
Overall, in our opinion at Clutch, the 2012 Lincoln MKZ hybrid surpasses all of its competition in the luxury hybrid market. The included features, incredible fuel economy, and relatively moderate price make the vehicle an easy choice  for buyers looking to transition to a hybrid sedan. Did we mention the moderate price?​

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By Nathan Dowdy