2015 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Expert Review

Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac

The 2015 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is now available with four new exterior colors, Luxe, Magnetic, Bronze Fire, and Guard.

Vehicle Summary

The 2015 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a luxury sedan powered by a hybrid powertrain that pairs a 2.0-liter I-4 with an electric motor, with a total system output of 188 hp. Using a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the MKZ Hybrid's gas mileage is respectable for the class at 41/39 mpg city/highway. Gas-powered Lincoln MKZs are also available with a 3.7-liter V-6 making 300 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque or a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 rated at 240 hp and 270 lb-ft. Those models are paired with a traditional six-speed automatic gearbox.

Overview

One of the 2015 Lincoln MKZ's biggest strengths is its striking exterior styling that stands out when compared with more pedestrian-looking luxury sedans in its class. Interior fit and finish is good with quality materials that are up to par with the competition. Cabin refinement is a strong point with little exterior noise penetrating the interior. Opting for the huge retractable sunroof sacrifices rear seat headroom, otherwise there's decent room for passengers up front and in the rear. MyLincoln Touch, essentially a re-skinned version of the MyFord Touch infotainment system, works well relatively well but takes a long time to load maps and has graphics that are identical to the Ford Fusion Hybrid's infotainment system.

Since its main priority is to maximize fuel economy, the 2015 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is no sport sedan. While it has a good amount of power for passing and merging, the car's acceleration is adequate at best, with a Motor-Trend-tested 0-60 mph time of 8.8 seconds.

The NHTSA gave the 2015 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid a five-star overall safety rating (out of a possible five stars) while the IIHS considers it a Top Safety Pick, receiving a Good score on four categories, and Acceptable in the small overlap front crash test (Good is the highest possible score).

What We Think

The 2015 Lincoln MKZ offers a great balance of style, fuel economy, and comfort. In a 2014 First Test review, we said that the car's best feature is its styling, which "enhances Lincoln's design" but doesn't come at the cost of interior space. Additionally, the cabin remains hushed on the move. However, the infotainment system is a weak point because it takes an unusually long time to load maps, and is essentially the same system as in the Ford Fusion.