Who knew that Lincoln could produce such a gorgeous looking entry level luxury car? Not I, for I’ve been critical of Ford
for many years for neglecting its erstwhile luxury brand. When the original Lincoln Zephyr was introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model and quickly renamed the MKZ one year later, I thought that Ford management had lost it. After all, renaming a model is taboo especially once the initial product launch has taken place.

Still, Ford has been full of surprises these past few years, upstaging rival General Motors with a broader mix of fuel efficient vehicles
, quality on par with Honda and Toyota, and a new design direction for Lincoln. Almost suddenly, Ford is remaking Lincoln’s image by releasing the hit MKS in 2008 and with the MKT crossover slated to bow next summer.

But, we’re not talking about these two other models, rather the focus is on the MKZ, which has been redesigned for the 2010 model year and will be made available at Lincoln-Mercury dealers in Spring 2009. This model is a vast improvement over the capable first generation MKZ, representing an even more distinctive separation from the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, two other midsize models sharing the same platform as the MKZ.

For the 2010 model, MKZ will get a much more plusher interior, fresh design, and include new features such as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA), designed to make navigating traffic and parking lots much safer and easier.

Speaking about BLIS, this feature tracks vehicles in the blind-spot zones on either side of the vehicle using two multiple-beam radar modules behind the rear fenders. Indicator lights in the outside rear-view mirror on both sides of the vehicle warn the driver when a vehicle enters the defined blind-spot zone, extending from the side mirror to 10 feet behind the vehicle and 10 feet away from the vehicle.

CTA uses the BLIS radar sensors to alert the driver of approaching traffic while in reverse and backing out of a parking spot. The CTA tracks up to 65 feet on either side of the vehicle and warns the driver through both audible and visual alerts. Also, the 2010 Lincoln MKZ offers SYNC, Next-Generation Voice-Activated Navigation, keyless entry, Easy Fuel™ capless fuel filler, THX-branded audio and adaptive headlamps.

Changes in the MKZ cabin are sure to delight Lincoln fans, upgrades which include more chrome, genuine aluminum and wood depending on the trim package, an all-new instrument panel, detailed touches including new welcome lighting, chimes, tuxedo stitching on luxury leather seats and Bridge of Weir leather, the latter which is unembossed, to allow the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through.

All MKZ models are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 Duratec engine, that delivers 263 horsepower and 249 pounds-feet of torque. The 3.5-liter uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high RPMs. Paired with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission which operates with either front or all-wheel drive MKZ models, performance is expected to improve while fuel mileage remains the same or increases slightly over the 2009 model.

Built at Ford’s Hermosillo (Mexico) plant, the all new Lincoln MKZ will arrive at local dealers in early Spring 2009. Prices have yet to be set, but expect that the new MKZ will be a strong competitor in the entry level luxury sedan segment.
For details see luxury car and automotive.

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