2012 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR 2012 NAVIGATOR OVERVIEW

The 2012 Lincoln Navigator continues to raise the bar it helped define by offering timeless design and luxury amenities that give it a level of performance and style that truly sets it apart in the premium full-size SUV market.

Lincoln earned the ranking of top brand in the 2011 Vehicle Dependability Study recently conducted by J.D. Power and Associates. Lincoln was just recognized as the leading luxury brand in vehicle satisfaction by AutoPacific in its 15th annual Vehicle Satisfaction Awards. The awards are industry benchmarks for measuring how satisfied an owner is with his or her new vehicle. The study summarizes input from more than 68,000 new vehicle owners.

The innovations that have helped Lincoln earn such accolades keep coming.

The new Navigator, for example, offers Lincoln SYNC(R) AppLink(TM), 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.

Excellence in class

The Lincoln Navigator exudes strength and confidence with an unmistakable exterior design and styling package. Details set it apart. Consider the power-deployable running boards that slide out from under the vehicle when a door is opened as just one example of the level of detail offered by Navigator.

The interior design of the 2012 Navigator blends function and form. Quality abounds throughout the interior, with olive ash and walnut swirl wood accents on the front and rear doors, the instrument panel and steering wheel, and alloy and burnished bronze accents located on the center stack, door trim, beverage holder rings and gear shifter.

The Navigator has exceptionally comfortable seats that enhance interior refinement and include a stitched Lincoln Star logo on each first-row head restraint. The seats are plush yet firm, with soft cushions, and are designed to enhance comfort by reducing vibration through the floor.

The 2012 Lincoln Navigator features 103.3 cubic feet behind the first row, 54.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row along with an under-floor cargo compartment for stowing various items.

Power comes from a quiet and smooth 5.4-liter SOHC V8 engine that produces 310 horsepower at 5,100 rpm and 365 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm when running on regular gasoline. The engine provides confident power to accelerate effortlessly to cruising speed and at the same time has powerful low-end capability for maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission provides smooth and precise shifts.

Lincoln offers complimentary maintenance for the first four years/50,000 miles in service.

Impressive technology

Lincoln SYNC creates a whole new way for customers to interact with digital and vehicle technology, offering impressive innovations such as Lincoln SYNC Services, which includes Traffic, Directions and Information, along with AppLink.

The standard voice-activated touch-screen Navigation System with SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link enables customers to access up-to-the-minute information and entertainment content, such as current gas prices for about 120,000 filling stations, traffic information for 78 markets, weather conditions, sports scores and movie listings in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. Owners receive a free six-month subscription for SiriusXM Radio.

Navigator occupants also enjoy superb audio sound quality as Lincoln is the only car manufacturer in the world to offer the THX(R) II Certified Audio System, which comes with AM/FM/MP3 capabilities and a six-disc, in-dash CD changer.

Available as an option is a headrest-mounted DVD system. With two individual screens and two sets of wireless headphones, the system allows rear seat passengers to enjoy individual audio and visual options without disturbing those in the front seat or each other. A standard household-style 110-volt AC outlet has been added to facilitate connection of video game consoles or other auxiliary gear.

The Forward Sensing System helps warn drivers of certain objects within a defined range of front bumpers. It alerts the driver with an audible tone when large stationary objects are detected in front of the vehicle. The feature assists with parallel parking and parking in a garage or crowded area and is automatically turned off when the vehicle is shifted to park or neutral.

The Reverse Sensing System warns the driver with an audible tone if an object is detected up to six feet behind the vehicle. The warning sound becomes a solid tone to tell the driver it is time to stop. It automatically engages whenever a vehicle is placed in reverse. And the rear view camera system transmits an image of the space directly behind the vehicle to the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse.

New for 2012 in Navigator are integrated spotter mirrors that consist of an outside rearview mirror designed with a secondary convex spotter in the top outer corner. The spotter mirror is aimed at the driver's blind spot. When traffic enters the blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, helping provide the driver a broader peripheral view.

Rain-sensing wipers automatically detect moisture on the windshield and activate the wipers to help increase driver visibility.

Security owners deserve

Navigator brings many safety features to the full-size SUV segment.

AdvanceTrac(R) with RSC(R) (Roll Stability Control(TM)) is an electronic stability enhancement system that enhances control on slippery surfaces like snowy, muddy, wet or gravel roads. Roll Stability Control can detect potentially unstable situations and quickly engages AdvanceTrac to help keep the tires firmly planted on the ground. All-wheel drive is an option, as well.

Front seat-mounted side airbags provide chest protection in certain side-impact collisions or rollovers. These airbags are attached directly to the front seats so they provide protection regardless of seat position. The Safety Canopy System has side-curtain airbags that provide added protection for outboard-seated occupants in the event of certain side-impact or rollover collisions.

The SOS Post-Crash Alert System(TM) automatically sounds the vehicle's horn and flashes the hazard lights in the event of an accident where the airbags are deployed or the front safety belt pretensioners are activated.

To help promote responsible driving habits, the MyKey(R) owner controls feature is standard for the new Navigator. MyKey allows owners to program a key to limit vehicle speed to 80 mph, limit maximum audio volume to 44 percent of the audio system's capability and establish earlier low-fuel warning.

The standard SecuriCode(TM) keyless entry keypad uses a five-digit code that allows owners to unlock the driver's door, passenger doors or access the liftgate, all without using a key. SecuriCode helps eliminate the possibility of being locked out of the vehicle and allows customers to program their own, customized five-digit code.

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2012 LINCOLN MKT DISTINCTIVE DESIGN, SPACIOUSNESS, IMPRESSIVE TECHNOLOGY AND AFFORDABILITY ARE HIGHLIGHTS OF LUXURIOUS 2012 LINCOLN MKT

Add affordability to the list of reasons the luxurious 2012 Lincoln MKT is so appealing - a list that already includes distinctive design, interior spaciousness, fuel economy and impressive technology.

Lincoln has lowered the list price of the 2012 MKT with EcoBoost(TM) by $3,000 compared with the 2011 model. This realignment gives the new Lincoln MKT with EcoBoost the same price tag as last year's 3.7-liter V6 with all-wheel drive, not available for 2012.

For those interested in the 2012 Lincoln MKT without EcoBoost, the price remains unchanged from the 2011 model.

The new Lincoln MKT features a starting MSRP (excluding taxes, title and license fees) of $46,295 for the all-wheel-drive 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and $44,300 for the 3.7-liter V6.

The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 offers the power of a normally aspirated V8 with V6 fuel economy - and that's standard with all-wheel drive. AWD enhances the vehicle's capability in a variety of weather conditions. The sophisticated AWD system is fully automatic using an advanced array of internal electromechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque between front and rear wheels as needed.

The EcoBoost V6 delivers 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm while generating 350 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,500 through 5,250 rpm and getting an estimated 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

EcoBoost is a key element in Lincoln's strategy to deliver the power luxury car customers want combined with the fuel economy they need. Combining gasoline direct injection with twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine, EcoBoost can match the power output of larger, naturally aspirated engines while yielding torque.

Tradition of quality continues

The engineering and craftsmanship that sets Lincoln MKT apart from competitors doesn't stop under the hood and it shows - Lincoln was just recognized as the leading luxury brand in vehicle satisfaction by AutoPacific in its 15th annual Vehicle Satisfaction Awards. The awards are industry benchmarks for measuring how satisfied an owner is with his or her new vehicle. The study summarizes the results of more than 68,000 new vehicle owners.

The new Lincoln MKT continues to offer luxury crossover shoppers Lincoln's signature design in an inviting three-row configuration with intuitive technologies designed to make customers' lives easier.

MKT buyers can choose between six- and seven-passenger models with two different second-row seating configurations. A standard 60/40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions. Power "fold and tumble" second-row bucket or captain's seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustments are available as well. A rear console-mounted five-quart-capacity refrigerator is available in the six-passenger seating configuration.

Safety innovations

Safety is key with the Lincoln MKT. It continues to offer the kind of safety innovations that helped the 2011 model earn a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. To earn the ranking, a vehicle must receive a "good" rating in all four of the institute's crash tests: front, side, rear and rollover. Ratings vehicles can earn are good, acceptable, marginal and poor. Electronic stability control must be available as an option at least.

In addition to standard electronic stability control through AdvanceTrac(R) with RSC(R) (Roll Stability Control(TM)), Lincoln MKT features an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.

Lincoln MKT also features SPACE (Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement) Architecture(R) incorporated to optimize side-impact incidents. The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high-strength steel tube embedded in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and along the rocker panels to form a safety cage to help protect passengers in side-impact incidents.

Lincoln MKT also features the Personal Safety System(TM), combining multiple technologies to tailor the airbag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances. The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage to adjust airbag deployment force.

Premium technology

Premium innovations available for the Lincoln MKT include adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, active park assist and BLIS(R) (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert.

It doesn't stop there. Lincoln SYNC(R) is standard on Lincoln MKT models, providing occupants with voice-activated communications and infotainment, including 911 Assist(TM) and Vehicle Health Report (VHR). SYNC is an advanced software platform that provides consumers the convenience and flexibility to bring digital media players and Bluetooth(R)-enabled mobile phones into their vehicles and operate the devices via voice commands or with the steering wheel's supplemental audio controls.

Along with the convenience of SYNC voice control, drivers can operate the climate control and audio system via voice or touch using the standard center-stack touch screen display. The audio system includes a CD/DVD/MP3 player with 10 speakers, SiriusXM Radio with a six-month subscription and audio input jack. An available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens offers individual or simultaneous programming to second-row passengers.

The available Elite Package includes a voice-activated Navigation System and a unique-to-Lincoln THX(R) II Certified 5.1 Surround Audio System with 14 strategically aimed premium audio speakers. The Navigation System can also receive HD Radio(TM) broadcasts, giving listeners access to additional free programming in areas where it is offered.

A six-month SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link prepaid subscription is included with the Elite Package, providing coast-to-coast weather data, forecasts, fuel prices, sports scores, movie listings and more.

Literally topping off the new Lincoln MKT is the standard fixed-glass Panoramic Vista Roof(TM) with power-assisted front and rear sunshades - or the available power Panoramic Vista Roof that opens for an expansive open-air experience.

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2011 LINCOLN MKX

At a Glance

Pricing	$39,415 - $48,765
Drive Types	FWD, AWD
Engines	3.7l V6
Transmissions	A6
Fuel Economy	17-19 (city), 23-26 (highway)

Overview Information

The MKX is a five-passenger utility vehicle similar to the Nissan Murano, and Lexus RX. The MKX is closely related to its corporate sibling the Ford Edge. A 305-bhp 3.7 L V-6 mated to a 6-speed automatic drives the MKX. Both FWD and AWD versions of the MKX are available. The MKX's chromed grille is flanked by adaptive HID headlights that swivel to illuminate around curves. The luxurious interior combines wood trim, leather seats and polished metal accents. A new instrumentation approach from Ford incorporates all information and controls in to the large center mounted screen in the instrument panel as well as the configurable displays the flank the speedometer.

What Changed:

The MKX receives a mid-cycle makeover for 2011. A new split-grille adorns the front end of the MKX. Further changes to the wheels, wheel arches, rocker panels, and tail lamps update the styling of the MKX to match the latest products from Lincoln. The new interior features significantly upgraded instrumentation with electronic displays flanking the center mounted speedometer. The larger navigation screen incorporates more vehicle functions than before but includes new touch sensitive buttons on the instrument panel. A new 3.7l V6 engine provides more power while increasing fuel economy. Improvements to powertrain NVH and sound deadening should result in a quieter interior. Suspension and brake changes promise a more confident and refined ride.

Fun tuned in while noise is tuned out

A wealth of upgrades means the 2011 Lincoln MKX will provide a more connected feel between the driver and the road through responsive acceleration, engaging steering, spirited handling and confident braking.

The new 18-inch tires have increased grip and are mounted on larger wheels than the outgoing product, helping enable enhanced stopping and improved handling. Twenty-inch wheels are available as well.

The springs, shocks and stabilizer bars also have been retuned to give the Lincoln MKX a flatter response through turns and over hills while still providing the comfortable ride luxury buyers expect and demand.

The original Lincoln MKX set many benchmarks in overall quietness, and that tradition continues as Ford internal preliminary data show the 2011 MKX scores better in speech recognition, wind noise and sound package than competitors from Lexus and Audi.

Both road noise and wind noise are significantly decreased in the 2011 MKX because of improvements found throughout the interior and exterior, including powertrain. Additional actions include:

Sound pack and acoustic glass: A more-absorptive sound pack is found throughout the interior, which reduces high-frequency noise more effectively than material that acts merely as a barrier. The result is an improved articulation index, which measures how easy it is to hear and understand someone in the vehicle. The 2011 MKX also features an acoustic headliner, and the microphone for the SYNC system has been relocated so it is closer to the driver for improved voice recognition. The windshield also is thicker and acoustic-laminated for reduced wind noise. Acoustic glass in the front doors also is standard for the 2011 model. Finally, baked-on expandable foam baffles in the fenders and rear D-pillars help seal out unwanted road noise.

Powertrain NVH improvements: Three main actions contribute to a quieter 2011 Lincoln MKX from a powertrain NVH perspective. One is the more robust engine cover. Intake and exhaust systems also have been completely retuned for a crisper note corresponding to Lincoln powertrain DNA. Finally, a "tighter" torque converter reduces engine rpm on launch and tip-in events, reducing engine noise.

More stopping power, increased braking technology

New four-wheel disc brakes provide enhanced stopping power. Key brake system upgrades include steel pistons, larger rear rotors, revised brake friction materials, revised brake booster gain and revised pedal ratios, all of which enable more initial bite and a firmer, more confident feel when customers press on the brake pedal.

The 2011 Lincoln MKX also offers several new brake-related features: Hill Start Assist, which reduces rollback on hills; Trailer Sway Control, which provides greater towing stability when equipped with the available trailer tow package; Hydraulic Brake Assist, which provides greater braking force in emergency stops; and available Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support.

Improved performance without sacrificing fuel economy

Power for the 2011 Lincoln MKX is supplied by the 3.7-liter Duratec V-6, which employs advanced technology and clever control strategies, such as Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) to increase horsepower and torque without compromising fuel economy.

Customers of the 2011 Lincoln MKX will enjoy a luxury crossover that has best-in-class power and torque versus all V-6 competitors with unsurpassed highway fuel economy of 25 mpg - all on regular fuel. Horsepower has been increased to 305 - a 15-percent increase compared with the outgoing product - while torque is up to 280 ft.-lbs., marking a 12-percent improvement.

The 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 is mated to a six-speed SelectShift Automatic(TM) transmission, which gives customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.

In SelectShift mode, the transmission doesn't second-guess the driver, giving him or her control over gear selection and performance feel. Upshifts, for instance, are not commanded at redline, and downshifts are allowed at the lowest gear possible as defined by the engine speed.

For instance, when a lower gear is selected while descending a long downhill grade, the 2011 Lincoln MKX in SelectShift mode will hold that gear until the driver manually upshifts or returns to the fully automatic setting. To help ensure safe shifting, the transmission will downshift to the lowest acceptable gear, based on a calculated maximum speed. That means if a vehicle is traveling at highway speeds, the driver cannot downshift to first gear in SelectShift mode.

Improvements to engine hardware and powertrain control strategies account for the gains in power and fuel economy. Other strategies in addition to Ti-VCT are aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff; torque-based deceleration control and battery management through "smart charging."

New flowing exterior design perfectly wraps new Lincoln MKX technologies

The flowing exterior design of the 2011 Lincoln MKX provides the perfect complement to the luxury crossover's industry-leading technology and class-exclusive features.

"The 2011 Lincoln MKX will be a real standout in the Lincoln showroom," said Doyle Letson, chief designer. "The addition of the new split-wing grille, a key to Lincoln signature DNA, is just the start. The 2011 MKX has the best proportions of any Lincoln we have.

"The fender line, with the raised arch over the front wheel, as well as the lower rocker detail with beautifully tapered bright detail that runs the length of the vehicle, makes a dramatic difference in side view," he added.

New for the 2011 model is an updated rear taillamp treatment. The lamps are now two distinct pieces that employ an indirect LED system that hides the light source while allowing the light intensity to shine through. The reverse sensors of the Blind Spot Information System are integrated into the reflectors while the Lincoln star sits proudly on a new applique. The 4-inch oval exhaust tips, significantly larger on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, also increase the unique luxury crossover's presence.

The new 18- and 20-inch wheels are more dynamic and expressive. Instead of a familiar linear or blocky appearance, the wheels encompass a variety of undulating and complex shapes that help the 2011 Lincoln MKX appear always in motion. The vibrant wheel shapes again underscore the enhanced craftsmanship and attention to detail found throughout the 2011 Lincoln MKX.

All-new interior brimming with functionality and craftsmanship

The interior of the 2011 Lincoln MKX reflects an even greater emphasis on what defines Lincoln DNA: luxury, craftsmanship, genuine materials and sharper execution.

Gentle details that bring out Lincoln standards of quality and excellence include brightwork on the vents, genuine stitching on the doors and softer armrests with upgraded materials. The cupholders, with available ambient lighting, are found beneath the independent sliding leather-covered console lids, which feature decorative stitching. A power tilt/telescoping steering column and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel are available.

All-new leather-trimmed seats, comfort sections and standard tuxedo stripe embrace the new Lincoln DNA sew style. More genuine aluminum appliques are standard, with aluminum accents on the door added to the spears on the instrument panel.

The two available wood accents - Olive Ash and Walnut Swirl - on the steering wheel, dashboard and doors add character and form; each selection has a livelier, natural appearance, adding even more character to the interior. Whether customers select aluminum or wood, the increased use of genuine materials in the 2011 Lincoln MKX ensures that each interior will be distinctive.

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2010 LINCOLN MKZ

Ford’s luxury brand is fielding some pretty cool products.  The 2011 Lincoln MKX is a nicely redone crossover with some advanced technology. The MKS is certainly worth noting with its hotter than hot EcoBoost engine. And the new MKT three row crossover is finally bringing some edgy styling to Ford’s finest.

But arguably, the staple of the Lincoln line is the MKZ luxury sedan, which was once known as the Zephyr.  This is the model that put Lincoln back on the road to glamour after years of only fielding the dowdy old Town Car.

The MKZ makes a very interesting counterpoint to the Cadillac CTS, GM’s rowdy, elegant, take no prisoners luxury sedan. Where CTS pushes the envelope, the MKZ sets a course for understated, subdued elegance. Where CTS is setting a course for international notoriety, the MKZ is all cool, all-American luxury.

But as they say, that’s why you have vanilla and chocolate ice cream, and yes, even Rocky Road, too.  The MKZ appeals to a very distinct part of the market: Those who want nothing less than an all-American luxury sedan and prefer it to be tasteful,  bristling with handy features, and not making a lot of styling waves, thank you very much.

Our test model was an all wheel drive 2010 MKT with a 3.5 liter, 263 horsepower V6 Duratec engine.  Base price is $36,005, with a host of standard equipment including a handy, time-saving capless fuel filler, full power accessories, 10 way power driver and passenger seats, both with lumbar adjustments, dual-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, Sirius satellite, and Ford’s marvelous sync voice activated system, traction control, advance stability control and lots of other good things. Mileage with this model is 17/24 miles per gallon.

Adding a “Rapid Spec” package with goodies like the THXII sound system, power moonroof navigation,  sport appearance package, interior aluminum trim package, dual zone air conditioning system and a few other items, brought the bottom line to $43,245.

As you cross the lighted “Lincoln” scuff plate when you open the door, you’ll notice a pretty smart looking interior with black leather and gray/white accent stripes.  Lincoln did a nice job remodeling the interior with tasteful aluminum or chrome accents everywhere.  In the rear, all three passengers have head rests, and believe us, the rear seat is a choice spot for anybody who’s riding along on a long journey.

The gauges have a nice white letting against black background design, and the needles have a silvery gray moonlit appearance that makes them especially attractive.  When you engage the engine, all the needles spin around to let you know the car is ready for action.

This car is no showboat; it does what it’s supposed to do quietly, efficiently, and without calling attention from the owner. The MKZ’s arresting charm is in its subtleties, its air of competence, and “I ‘ve got this under control” kind of ambience for drivers.

But it is clear that the MKZ is about due for a major redo, even though this year’s model already has received  a big revamp, with a nice boat prow front end and aggressive headlights that bring the MKZ in line with other members of the Lincoln family.

Yet, the car doesn’t quite match the competition for interior space, the dashboard, even with upgrades looks dated and not quite yup to the luxury label, and there’s an awful lot of plastic in the interior to contend  with, too.

Another issue: the MKZ still looks too much like the ford Fusion and the Mercury Milan, its platform siblings. The MKZ needs its own styling treatment–not just in the front, either, too make it in this field.

But once you hit the open road, you see where the MKZ shines. It has responsive, dead-on steering, and braking is superb, too. Handling is pretty flat, and you can forget about finding any of that wallowing feeling you may have gotten in Lincolns of old.

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2011 LINCOLN MKZ HYBRID

There’s something for everybody out there when it comes to luxury cars.

Want brash, in your face elegance? Try Cadillac. Want torrid performance served up with your comforts? Infiniti or BMW would love to see you. Want charisma and instant props when you get behind the wheel? Mercedes and Jag have just the cars for you.

But if you want subtle, below the radar elegance that puts you far from the madding crowd, you should check out Lincoln. Always a brand for classic, understated styling for a select few, Lincolns still have that certain air about them when you get behind the wheel.

This month, we had a peek at the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, a car that combines both subtlety and almost unbelievable fuel economy.  How about an engine that costs you about $998 a year to drive, based on 15,000 miles at $2.60 per gallon driving. And with its jet black looks, chrome tipped ehaust and 17 inch nine spokes aluminum wheels, this car seems perfect for an executive who disdains being “just like everybody else.”

  The 2.5 liter, 191 horsepower four cylinder hybrid engineand generator driven system  is rtated at 41 city and 36 highway, and we averaged about 34 miles per gallon  in mixed driving. It provided smooth, quiet performance, and surprisingly lively acceleration. Forget about what you’ve heard about all hybrid cars being poky.  MKZ Hybrid is an exception to that rule, which doesn’t surprise us because, having driven the Ford Fusion Hybrid, we know how good Ford has gotten at the hybrid game.

Our car had a base price of $34,330, which included such standard goodies as 10 way power driver seats with lumbar, and the same set up[ for front passengers. There were also heated and cooled front seats, smartgauge with ecoguide, satellite radio, and reverse sensing system, traction control, Mykey,which allows parents to govern speed and stereo volume for their teens, regenerative braking system, electronic stability control,  and a number of other items.

The MKS had as options a rapid spec package that invluded navbigation, with voice activation, a BLIS system with across traffic alert,, rear view video camera, and a THXII sound system.  With those options plus delivery, the price topped out at $38,775.

Perhaps the most important thing you should know abut the MKZ Hybrid apart from its sterling economy, is that it has a solid reputation for quality and fit and finish. It’s won plenty of awards from consumers and independent rating agencies alike, and that was reflected on our test car. Not a screw was loose, not a thread was hanging and everything fit together perfectly.

As we mentioned earlier, the MKZ Hybrid is brimming with technology from its cross traffic alert–a boon to urban drivers everywhere–to the rear camera system and the snazzy hybrid exclusive dashboard with the cool graphic that shows more flowers everytime you drive economically. Every possible facet of performance is carefully gauged for you and displayed if you want it–and we recommend a sit-down with your owners manual before you do anything with this car.

But we are afraid the technology is no use when it comes to the MKZ’s biggest issue: styling and presentation.  The MKZ is clearly ready for a complete makeover, and is simply hasn’t kept up with anyone else on the market in remaining fresh.  The grille doesn’t count.  Yes it’s the Lincoln family trademark, but it simply looks weird and out of place on this car. The emblems have a weird placement on the flanks of the car, and the whole car still looks too much like a Fusion to demand the asking price.

    Inside it’s even worse, despite the dashboard.  The styling, materials and presentation look outdated, and simply don’t measnure up even to some middle sized family cars like Hyundai’s Sonata and plenty of others.  It almost makes you wonder if the Lincoln brand is now on life support.

We at Automobile Journal weren’t the only ones concerned about the current state of the MKZ. Our friends at Edmunds. com had this to say about the MKZ:

“The problem, of course, is that it takes a lot more than a few exterior styling tweaks and interior upgrades to compete in a category full of excellent luxury sedans, which ultimately leads us to conclude the MKZ just doesn’t compute. This is especially true when you consider just how many excellent cars there are to choose from in this price range. Specifically, we’d recommend comparing the MKZ to the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac CTS, Hyundai Genesis, Infiniti G37, Lexus ES 350 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, all of which show more attention to detail and a greater degree of engineering excellence.

In sum, the 2012 Lincoln MKZ is a good car that represents the best of the Ford Fusion’s attributes, combined with a compelling array of luxury features, but it just isn’t the equal of its competition.”

Handling was so-so at best, with plenty of body lean and wallowing around corners and down curvy streets. It feels like a luxury car of yesteryear instead of a contemporary sports sedan, which is what it’s supposed to be.

   It’s time for Lincoln to step up to the plate and invest heavily in a redo for this respected model before it winds up on the critical list.

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