2014 LINCOLN MKZ HYBRID REVIEW

EV Channels Review

The 2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is presented as a stylish sedan that attempts to forge a new design identity for Lincoln, moving away from its "fancy Ford" perception. While the exterior is lauded for its striking and polarizing design, featuring standard LED lighting and signature grille, the interior reveals its Ford Fusion underpinnings with significant parts bin sharing, particularly in switchgear and seats. The reviewer criticizes the touch-sensitive climate and audio controls and the dated infotainment system, which is essentially Ford's MyLincoln Touch. Positives include a comfortable, quiet ride, especially in electric mode, and decent handling for its size, with the steering offering good precision. However, the reviewer notes that the hybrid powertrain, while offering decent fuel economy (averaging 36 MPG, slightly below EPA estimates but better on the highway), sounds unrefined under acceleration. The car is positioned as a "tweener" in size and price, competing with smaller luxury sedans but offering the footprint of larger ones. Ultimately, the reviewer finds the MKZ Hybrid overpriced compared to the Ford Fusion Hybrid and even non-luxury alternatives like the Accord Hybrid, questioning the value proposition despite its unique styling and hybrid powertrain.