2016 Lincoln MKZ 3.0L V6 6AT FWD (350 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In late 2015, at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, Lincoln unveiled the refreshed version of the MKZ’s second generation for the 2017 model year, and the changes were substantial.

Despite enjoying good sales for the segment, Lincoln introduced a refreshed version for the second generation of the MKZ, fixing some of the issues reported by customers. In addition, it considered replacing the brand’s design language, which was a bold move for the American luxury automaker. As a result, the 2017 Lincoln MKZ adopted the same styling as the 2015 Lincoln Continental concept car unveiled more than six months earlier at the 2015 New York Auto Show. Unfortunately, these changes didn’t boost sales, which declined continuously until the model withdrew from the market in 2020.

Maybe the split-wing design theme of the pre-facelifted version of the MKZ’s second generation wasn’t everybody’s cup of tea. Still, it helped Lincoln create a strong visual identity. On the other hand, the refreshed version came with a more conservative look, sporting a reversed trapezoidal grille with shaved corners that sported a chain-link-like pattern, with the automaker’s narrow and tall badge taking center stage. The LED headlights that flanked it were new, and so was the bumper that sported a broad lower air intake with additional side scoops that housed the fog lamps.

From its profile, the car boasted a four-door coupe-shaped bodywork with a sloped-down greenhouse and a tall deck. In addition, an ascending creased line visually connected the headlights with the taillights, interrupted by the door handles. Even the lower sculptured line on the doors followed an ascending trend to emphasize the car’s sporty character. However, Lincoln’s customers were more attracted by comfort and luxury than performance. Out back, a ducktail-styled spoiler adorned the trunk’s lid, while the jewel-like LED taillights were extended from side to side. On the lower side of the bumper, the 2017 Lincoln MKZ sported a diffuser-like center trim flanked by broad rectangular exhausts, depending on the version.

When Lincoln introduced the second generation of the MKZ, it installed touch buttons for almost everything. Customers didn’t appreciate that trend too much and asked the automaker to install physical buttons, especially for the fan speed and temperature, which were based on touch-sliding bars. As a result, even though it looked like a technological step back, Ford’s luxury brand introduced them, so they cluttered the otherwise clean-looking center stack. However, the touch buttons for the automatic transmission remained the same and in the same position as before. The automaker also introduced new options for upholstery and interior decorations, adding new wood trims and types of suede to the options list.

Under the hood, the turbocharged inline-four engine for the base model offered five more ponies. In addition, Lincoln replaced the former naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 unit with a fresh 3.0-liter twin-turbo powerplant, which sent the power to the front or in all corners, depending on the version. Both versions were paired with the same six-speed automatic transmission and were available with front- or all-wheel drive systems. The hybrid drivetrain was also enhanced but kept the same power and front-wheel drive system.