From the logbook: Lincoln MKZ
We try to keep up to date with the cars we test, but automakers don't always make it easy. Take the Lincoln Zephyr. Introduced in 2006, we ran one through our test program. Little did we know that the 2006 Zephyr would be a one-year-wonder. For 2007, a new name -- MKZ -- and more importantly a new 3.5-liter V6 arrived, replacing the old 3.0-liter V6 that remains in the MKZ's siblings, the Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan.
So we bought a 2007 MKZ to see if the new engine is more successful than the name change; Alan Mulally, Ford's president and chief executive officer, has been quoted as joking that he's still looking for his Zephyr in the parking lot. Given that the Taurus name is back on his urging, could Zephyr be not far behind? (We're hoping Aviator returns too, rather than the confusing and non-distinctive MKX moniker that afflicts new Lincoln crossovers.)
We were wowed by the Fusion and Milan, but is the luxury Lincoln version as convincing? Here's the first impressions jotted down so far in the logbook:
"Very nice steering, agile handling and good power should add up to a nice sports sedan."
"The 3.5-liter V6 is better than the 3.0, but still not as sporty and refined as Nissan's, Toyota's or Honda's 3.5-liter V6s or GM's 3.6."
"Ride is comfortable but floaty at high speeds."
"Turning circle is wide, making it clumsy to park."
"Pretty quiet, but, overall, it feels ordinary--what makes it a Lincoln?"
"Seats are comfortable. Access is easy."
"Could use more head room."
"Small seat heater controls are hard to find; the seat heaters also time-out. I much prefer to switch them off when I'm [good and] ready."
"Good rear seat room for kids."
"Some features and interior trim is more in keeping with an American luxo-barge, so I'm not sure what this car's market is."
"Hard plastics abound inside and the back-lit controls on a silver background are illegible."
"Limited cubbies; no place for cell phone."
"If you like the Milan/Fusion/Zephyr, than the MKZ is for you...but I think a 'new' Lincoln should have more."
"Save $10K and buy the nearly as good Ford Fusion."
So, as you can see, it's a mixed bag. Overall, we're not sure it distinguishes itself all that much from the more affordable Ford Fusion on which it is based. The MKZ will have its work cut out for it when it competes against other upscale sedans in our spring-time road test.
--Mike Quincy
