-- The 3.5-liter V-6 Duratec® engine, standard on Lincoln MKZ, delivers 263 horsepower and 249 ft.-lb. of torque while remaining a projected class leader in fuel economy
-- All-new fully featured 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid projected to be most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America
-- Lincoln signature styling is incorporated in a bold front end, LED taillamps and a crisp overall exterior appearance, while premium interior accommodations include soft-touch materials and Bridge of Weir leather

An elegant exterior design, a luxurious interior, exceptional performance and an ultra-smooth, quiet ride: Designers artfully packaged each of these classic Lincoln characteristics together in a premium midsize sedan to create the 2011 Lincoln MKZ.

For 2011, customers accustomed to signature high-end features are treated to exclusive technologies including an available voice-activated navigation system with HD Radio®, Lincoln SYNC® voice-activated communications and infotainment system, and MyKey™ programmable vehicle key, among others.

And, new for 2011, Lincoln introduces its first hybrid – the new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid – a premium midsize car poised to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America.

Standard premium technologies

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ comes standard with all the features buyers would expect from a world-class midsize luxury sedan, and some that are unavailable anywhere else. Examples include Lincoln SYNC, which provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth® phone, audible text and MP3 capabilities, Lincoln customers also can access Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™.

SYNC with Traffic, Directions & Information leverages industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth-capable mobile phone. New SYNC applications provide simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions, and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather.

For 2011, the available voice-activated navigation system gains HD Radio technology. HD Radio enables more listening options and digital sound quality. No additional equipment or cost is involved: To use HD Radio, listeners simply tune in their favorite station. If the station is broadcasting with HD Radio technology, the system automatically picks up the signal and will transition to digital audio once decoded.

MyKey is a Lincoln-exclusive feature that allows owners to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. MyKey encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.

Class-leading interior experience

The elegant interior of Lincoln MKZ starts with the seats, equipped with multiple memory functions enable passengers to fine-tune and recall their positions.

Many luxury vehicles offer only a heated and ventilated seating system; competitive designs simply recycle cabin air without actually modifying temperature. In the Lincoln MKZ, a thermal engine, operated independently of the vehicle’s climate control system, heats or cools the air and then circulates it to the seatbacks and cushions.

As a finishing touch, seats are draped in standard Bridge of Weir leather. The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery, soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.

To further improve on the sense of elegance, cabin noise levels are minimized through extensive refinement. The 2011 Lincoln MKZ benefits from noise, vibration and harshness control actions that include:

-- An acoustic laminated windshield that features a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass to soften noise levels
-- Precision body and door sealing to reduce wind noise
-- Expandable stuffers in the fenders and pillars
-- Constrained layer damping material on the entire floor to reduce road noise
-- An acoustic headliner to further deaden interior noise

Performance coupled with fuel economy

The award-winning 3.5-liter Duratec V-6 powers the 2011 Lincoln MKZ, delivering 263 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 249 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm on regular gasoline while still projected to remain among the segment leaders in fuel economy with 18 mpg in the city and 27 highway projected for the front-wheel-drive model.

The 3.5-liter V-6 uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead-cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high rpm. This engine also incorporates intake variable cam timing to optimize valve timing for a smooth idle and an impressive broad torque curve with good power.

The MKZ engineering team also concentrated on the engine mount subsystem, tuning to precisely balance the sound between sportiness and luxury. A high 10.3:1 compression ratio and aluminum cylinder heads designed for high airflow and optimized combustion help complete the package, supporting the engine’s ability to deliver great performance and fuel economy along with low emissions.

A six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission is standard on all 2011 Lincoln MKZ models except Hybrid. Six forward speeds allow the transmission to provide a combination of low initial gearing for excellent acceleration and taller top gears for better highway mileage.

The SelectShift Automatic also provides the driver with manual gear selection for enhanced sportiness. Downshifts are locked out to protect the engine from over-revving. The “enhanced overdrive cancel” mode locks out the fifth and sixth gears, allows shifts at higher speed for more engine braking and downshifts for grade-assist functionality.

Ride smoothness coupled with agile handling

Lincoln engineers designed the rear suspension lower control arm control point to move the roll center closer to the center of gravity, which balances ride and handling characteristics. A hydraulic variable-flow steering pump changes the flow rate at lower speeds to give good response and ease parking efforts, while still maintaining a tight turning circle.

Lincoln MKZ’s available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system uses an electromechanical clutch and employs two basic modes of torque transfer – preemptive torque (before wheel slip) and slip-control torque (after wheel slip). This dual system gives the driver confidence in any situation, while the AWD suspension is specially tuned to be neutral when cornering.

The AWD system works in harmony with brake traction control to deliver confidence to Lincoln MKZ drivers. AdvanceTrac® with Electronic Stability Control – which is standard on every new Lincoln MKZ – keeps drivers in command as well.

Lincoln MKZ Remains an Attraction with Top Fuel Efficiency and Identical Hybrid and Gasoline MSRP

• Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America with a 41 mpg city rating; it achieves more than 700 miles on a tank of fuel
• New Lincoln MKZ and MKZ Hybrid both offer premium standard features, such as heated and cooled seats
• Innovation and clever technology, such as Lincoln SYNC®, reward owners every time they get behind the wheel
• Award-winning 3.5-liter Duratec® V6 powers the 2012 Lincoln MKZ with both front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, delivering 263 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 249 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm on regular gasoline

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, Lincoln’s first-ever hybrid vehicle, continues to deliver powerful results for the brand in overall green credentials and sales success for 2012. Available for the same price as the gasoline version, Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America, delivering an EPA-certified 41 mpg rating in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway.

“Lincoln MKZ Hybrid shows that customers don’t have to sacrifice luxury to own a green vehicle,” said Kate Pearce, Lincoln marketing manager. “You’ll find an unusual amount of standard luxury features that are hard to find on a hybrid.”

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid’s fuel economy tops its nearest competitor – the 2011 Lexus HS 250h – by 6 mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with higher net horsepower, more passenger space, enhanced interior, and more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features.

Not to be outdone, the 2012 Lincoln MKZ gasoline model has the award-winning 3.5-liter Duratec® V6, delivering 263 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 249 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm on regular gasoline. The front-wheel-drive model gets an estimated 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway; the optional all-wheel-drive model gets an estimated 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

Both the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and front-wheel-drive gasoline model start at $34,645 (MSRP); the all-wheel-drive gasoline model starts at $36,535.

And whether owners choose the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid or the new non-hybrid MKZ, there is a good chance they won’t be let down.

The J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Vehicle Dependability Study named Lincoln as the top brand based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles. J.D. Power polled 43,700 original owners on problems experienced during the past 12 months on 2008-model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. Out of 35 brands, Lincoln had the lowest number of problems.

Environmentally conscious

The 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses the 2.5-liter Atkinson-Cycle I-4 hybrid engine, named one of Ward’s 2010 10 Best Engines. Lincoln MKZ Hybrid can travel more than 700 city miles on one tank of gas.

The system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy.

Industry-leading fuel economy comes without sacrificing power. The combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide best-in-class 191 net horsepower. Plus, the pure electric mode on the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid extends to a best-in-class 47 mph – compared with the Lexus battery-only mode, which reaches just 25 mph.

Lincoln’s commitment to being environmentally conscious doesn’t stop under the hood and is apparent in both the MKZ Hybrid and non-hybrid MKZ. Lincoln uses a number of recycled materials in its vehicles with an overall goal of using materials that are both renewable and recyclable.

Some of the materials Lincoln uses include:

• Genuine wood appliqués that come from well-managed forests as defined by strict environmental, social and economic standards
• Bridge of Weir™ luxury leather, which uses a chromium-free, organic tanning process, produces environmentally sustainable byproducts and is recyclable at the end of its life
• Post-consumer plastics and recycled resins such as detergent bottles, tires and battery casings are used to create parts such as splash shields and radiator air deflector shields

Clever technology

The 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid comes standard with features and technologies that are either not offered on the Lexus HS 250h or are available only at an extra cost.

The MKZ Hybrid, for example, has SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide. This highly successful interactive technology provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, and coaches drivers on how to optimize hybrid performance. Lincoln takes SmartGauge to the next level of engagement by giving drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the growth of virtual small flowers on the system’s right-most screen. Lincoln’s white flowers, inspired by apple blossoms, remain permanently unless long-term fuel economy is reset.

Both MKZ models feature Lincoln SYNC, an innovation that provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth® phone, audible text and MP3 capabilities, Lincoln customers can access Vehicle Health Report (VHR) and 911 Assist™.

Lincoln SYNC Services leverages industry-leading voice recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth-capable mobile phone. SYNC applications provide simple, hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather.

Available for the first time on both models of the MKZ is SYNC® AppLink™, a software application that gives Lincoln SYNC users hands-free voice control of select smartphone apps. The 2012 model year marks the first time AppLink has been available for Lincoln.

The available voice-activated Navigation System includes HD Radio™ technology, which enables more listening options and digital sound quality. No additional equipment or cost is involved.

The Lincoln Premium Sound System features nine speakers and an input jack, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio with a six-month prepaid subscription is standard. The unique-to-Lincoln TXH® II Certified Audio System with 5.1 Surround Sound is available through the Ultimate Package. Lincoln is the only carmaker in the world to offer customers the TXH audio experience with a system that delivers clean, crisp sound with very little distortion as each speaker is strategically placed to ensure a high-impact listening experience. It features a 12-channel amplifier that delivers 600 watts to 14 speakers and two subwoofers. Also, multichannel DVD audio discs can be played at any time. When in park, DVDs may be played.

BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert is available for the Lincoln MKZ as part of the Navigation Package. Using two multiple-beam radar modules, the system can detect when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding sideview mirror. Cross-traffic alert uses the same technology to help detect if a car is approaching from either side within 45 feet of the vehicle when backing out of a parking space. The Navigation Package also features a rear view camera.

Available as part of the Ultimate Package are adaptive headlamps that rotate according to speed and steering inputs to allow for greater visibility around turns. Rain-sensing wipers, which are activated when they detect moisture on the windshield, are also part of the package.

Standard innovations include:

• Power driver memory seat settings – The driver seat memory feature helps ensure personal seating preferences anytime, with the touch of a button
• Heated and cooled front seats – This uniquely engineered system delivers exceptional heating and cooling comfort
• Keyless entry keypad – This Lincoln-exclusive feature provides secure entry at a driver’s fingertips. A personal combination holds a memory for driver preferences. So if an owner is out for a run and doesn’t want to take the keys along, the vehicle can be opened with the touch of a few buttons
• Easy Fuel® (capless fuel filler) – This Lincoln-exclusive feature uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on a driver’s hands

Innovative safety

Safety is at the forefront of Lincoln vehicles, and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and the standard MKZ both come complete with several safety technologies including Personal Safety System™, a Lincoln-exclusive suite of seven protection technologies that work together to help protect vehicle occupants. The system includes dual-stage front airbags and an occupant classification system to sense whether the passenger seat is occupied. It tailors – or suppresses – airbag deployment to help provide an appropriate level of protection. It also features the Belt-Minder® system to remind front seat occupants to buckle up.

Other safety features include child safety locks for the rear seat, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether anchors for Children).

Another standard safety feature is AdvanceTrac® electronic stability control with brake-actuated traction control. The system is designed to help drivers maintain steering control and directional stability in adverse conditions.

The MyKey® owner control feature is Lincoln-exclusive and allows owners to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive more responsibly. MyKey encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.

Integrated spotter mirrors and a Reverse Sensing System also are available.

Production location

The Lincoln MKZ is built at the Hermosillo (Mexico) Stamping and Assembly Plant.

Lincoln MKZ Concept: Future Vision Today

DETROIT, Jan. 10, 2012 – The new Lincoln MKZ Concept, revealed today at the North American International Auto Show, signals a significant step in Lincoln's reinvention, providing a clear vision of its next-generation vehicles.

"With the Lincoln MKZ Concept, we are not introducing a new car. We are essentially introducing a new brand," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Motor Company group vice president for Global Product Development. "The MKZ Concept is the next step in the reinvention of Lincoln, something we've been quietly but aggressively pursuing."

Lincoln MKZ Concept: Exterior
The MKZ Concept strongly hints at the production model arriving in dealerships later this year, as well as Lincoln's design future.

"The MKZ Concept's shape is a vision of simplicity completed with just a few strokes," said Max Wolff, Lincoln design director. "Our movement as a brand is toward something we call elegant simplicity. It's something warmer and more restrained, which is moving away from complex designs and traditional luxury." (View a video highlighting the main design elements of the Lincoln MKZ Concept here.)

Warm hues are evident in every aspect of the new vehicle's Cognac-colored exterior. The deep finish is achieved with a rich base coat covered in multiple layers of tinted clear-coat finishes.

By retaining key, recognizable brand design elements, the MKZ Concept remains clearly identifiable as a Lincoln. One example is the more refined interpretation of the split-wing grille, introduced on the 1938 Lincoln-Zephyr. (Click here for image.)

The sedan's profile is dominated by a long, sleek and sweeping roofline that allows the design to break away from the traditional sedan three-box shape. The lengthening of the roofline enables a more flowing, elegant and more naturally aerodynamic appearance. (Access Lincoln MKZ Concept specifications here.)

A panoramic glass roof spans uninterrupted from the windshield to the top of the backlight. Integrated into the sedan's aluminum and boron steel superstructure, the fixed-glass expanse extends to the side roof rails of the cabin, creating an airy, open interior. (Click here for gallery.)

LED technology enabled an extremely thin and distinctive full-width taillamp graphic. Exhaust tips are cleanly integrated into the rear fascia.
Lincoln MKZ Concept: Interior
The Lincoln MKZ Concept's four-seat interior is open, warm and inviting. "The front graphic is repeated in the dramatic sweep of the instrument panel, helping tie the interior to the exterior. These flowing forms create a comfortable and functional interior that particularly appeals to the younger, more diverse customers we are targeting," said Wolff.

Innovative interior features include push-button transmission gear selection, an open, tiered center console and liquid crystal instrumentation. The reconfigurable 10.1-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD positioned ahead of the driver operates with the latest version of MyLincoln Touch™ as does the nearly flush-mounted center 8-inch LCD touch screen.

Responsibly harvested poplar wood, aluminum in bright and satin finishes as well as leather help create a sculptural, luxurious and comfortable interior space. Champagne-colored leather seats with dark taupe accents feature a champagne perforation pattern, so-called because the perforations on the seat backs conjure the image of champagne bubbles rising from the bottom of a glass.

Lincoln MKZ Concept: Engineering
The Lincoln MKZ Concept is a styling study that rides on an all-new midsize platform. The sedan is capable of utilizing multiple powertrain options in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.

Like the recently introduced MKS and MKT with EcoBoost™, the Lincoln MKZ Concept features Lincoln Drive Control and the sophisticated Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension. (Click here for information on these Lincoln technologies and here for background on the Lane Keeping System, another feature integrated into the MKZ Concept.)

The Business of Lincoln
"Lincoln is an important part of our company's success," said Mark Fields, Ford Motor Company president of The Americas. "The luxury piece of the industry is significant. In any given year in the U.S., the luxury segment is 11 to 13 percent of overall sales, and it is important for us to win customers in the luxury market with strong new vehicles. That is a key reason we have invested so heavily in Lincoln."

During the past 14 months, Lincoln has built a dedicated team – including designers, engineers, quality and manufacturing experts as well as marketing and sales leaders. The team includes people from luxury brands, some outside of automotive.

"This team wakes up every morning thinking about Lincoln – and only Lincoln," Fields said. "These are the people committed to delivering world-class vehicles with a customer experience to match."

Many of the new team members begin working this year in the all-new Lincoln Design Studio in Dearborn, Mich.
Under Wolff's direction, construction of the 40,000-square-foot studio began in early 2011 and ultimately will house more than 180 modelers, engineers, stylists and designers in a space that encourages creativity and collaboration.

"This is the first time Lincoln has had its own studio since the 1970s," said Wolff. "Having our own space is critical to the continued development of the brand. We are passionate about creating beautiful, even seductive, vehicles – and the MKZ Concept marks just the beginning."