Lincoln's entry-level sedan, the vehicle formerly known as the Zephyr, gets more than a new name, it gets a much needed boost in power.
The MKZ nameplate is a much better fit with the rest of Lincoln's naming pattern and added power makes it worthy of the company and competition.
If you're familiar with the Zephyr, you'll be mostly familiar with the MKZ. However, there has been considerable effort to better differentiate the MKZ from its platform-mates, the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan.
The most noticeable difference that makes MKZ look more Lincoln-like is its new front end and new wheels (available in machined aluminum or chromed aluminum finishes). MKZ's waterfall grille looks more prominent and luxurious than its predecessor.
But it's what you can't see that really makes the MKZ more beautiful. Under the hood is a larger and more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 263 horsepower. That's considerably higher than what was previously available.
I can tell you that MKZ is much more enjoyable with the new powerplant. Acceleration from a stop or at passing speeds is excellent, even when the cabin is loaded with passengers.
I also found the standard six-speed automatic transmission quite agreeable. The shifts are so smooth that they're almost imperceptible.
Another improvement for 2007 includes the availability of an all-wheel drive version. For 2007, there are two MKZ models available: FWD ($29,305) and AWD ($31,175).
My tester was the MKZ AWD and I like the intelligent all-wheel-drive system that is tuned with an emphasis on luxury performance and confident all-weather driving.
The system actively and seamlessly delivers torque to all four wheels, even before wheel slippage occurs. An active on-demand coupler delivers the precise amount of torque needed to the rear wheels. Paired with available traction control, intelligent AWD can transfer torque front-to-rear and side-to-side.
The South Side's rain-slickened roads were easily navigated with the AWD on my Lincoln MKZ tester. By the way, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock come standard on MKZ.
Other improvements to the MKZ you can't see include suspension tuning that has been retuned to deliver a more responsive feel. The ride is comfortable without being to cushy. The cabin is quiet and luxurious.
The Lincoln MKZ uses genuine materials, including real wood, high-quality leather, satin nickel and chromed trim. White electro-luminescent lighting illuminates the round, chrome-ringed gauges, complementing the interior's white lighting, which uses white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to backlight controls and switches at night.
MKZ's cabin is luxurious and spacious. Up front, I had just enough legroom. There was also adequate legroom for our rear seat passengers even with the front seats in their rear most position.
When it comes time to placing packages in MKZ's trunk, you'll be pleasantly surprised with a roomy 15.8-cubic-foot trunk. Long packages can be loaded by folding the standard 60/40-split seatbacks that individually fold flat.
My passengers were enamored with the MKZ's audio system. My tester was equipped with the optional THX II Audiophile Sound System ($995). It features 14 speakers, including two subwoofers with 600 watts of power and a sophisticated processor that provides a dynamic range of sound.
Another feature worth mentioning is the DVD-based touch-screen navigation system ($2,495) that makes it easy to search and find destinations.
The Lincoln MKZ is loaded with safety features including a full-length side curtain airbag. The MKZ is truly a nice sedan worthy of the Lincoln badge.
2007 Lincoln MKZ AWD
Engine 3.5-liter (263 hp) V6
Transmission 6-speed automatic
Drive Type AWD
Fuel Economy 18 city/26 highway
Base Price $31,175
As Tested Not available
Website http://www.lincoln.com