2014 Lincoln MKZ Video Review

It could be said that the 2014 Lincoln MKZ suffers from a bit of an identity crisis. Lincoln is, of course, the upscale Ford sibling, designed to fight off the luxury import brands with a bit of Detroit power. But when Chris Wardlaw, Autobytel’s Road Test Editor, spent some time with the 2014 MKZ, he discovered that it could just as easily be called a sports sedan. Autobytel’s test car was powered by a 240-horsepower version of Ford’s EcoBoost engine and all-wheel-drive for comfort and capability, and the Reserve equipment package adds 19-inch wheels wrapped with summer performance rubber. The summer tires do result in considerable road noise, though, especially under heavy load. The cabin is stylish, although the MKZ seems to slightly compromise practicality in favor of aesthetics, tucking storage cubbies well out of the way. Driving modes can be selected through the infotainment system, offering the potential for a sporty and enthusiastic driving experience, or a relaxed and comfortable cruise. It’s in part thanks to the performance driving options that, during the Autobytel test, fuel economy fell quite short of the EPA’s estimated 25 MPG for combined driving. However, the EcoBoost engine does provide plenty of oomph, and there is a hybrid version of the MKZ available for more eco-conscious buyers.