The
2010 Lincoln MKZ is certainly one of those cars that have great presence when you see it parked or sitting in traffic.
You might not be so familiar with MKZ because it plays in a field filled with well-liked candidates.
But don't let that keep you from checking out this fine car.
The MKZ is underrated, and for 2010 it has undergone extensive exterior revisions that make it an exceptionally good-looking car. Not that its predecessor was ugly, but the 2010 Lincoln MKZ is certainly an attention grabber.
I especially like the new front and rear styling. Up front is a sportier look featuring a contemporary version of the brand's classic waterfall grille. Around back, I like the new deck lid, too, which features attractive LED taillamps.
The interior is all-new, too. Slip inside and you'll quickly feel a sumptuous luxurious tone with lighted sill plates, and of course, the beautiful Scottish Bridge of Weir leather seats.
The premium leather seats are both supportive and comfortable, and the front headrests feature a nicely stitched Lincoln logo. The front seats are also heated and cooled.
The fit and finish inside the MKZ is quite impressive, too. However, those who like the look of wood might be disappointed because MKZ is scarcely adorned with that commodity.
But once you consider all of MKZ's other fine qualities, you quickly forget about that and the fact that its hood needs a prop-rod to stay open.
Of course, MKZ has the wildly popular SYNC entertainment and connectivity system. I enjoy all that SYNC offers and find it extremely easy to use.
Whenever I borrow a vehicle with this system, I always take a few moments to SYNC up before taking to the road.
Put the 2010 Lincoln MKZ in motion and you immediately notice how exceptionally quiet the cabin remains no matter how fast you drive.
Lincoln obviously went to great lengths in using plenty of sound-damping material and high-quality glass to keep the cabin whisper quiet at highway speeds.
The suspension system is agreeable, too. MKZ's ride is smooth when cruising, yet remains nicely taut when taking corners at speed.
Under the hood of the MKZ is a transversely mounted 3.5-liter V-6 engine. With 263 horsepower, it provides more than enough power for launch and for passing.
Mated to MKZ's V-6 is a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. You can let it shift automatically or put it in manual mode if desired.
MKZ buyers can choose either a front-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive model.
Both models come standard with traction control and stability control as well as a long list of amenities.
The 2010 Lincoln MKZ is nicely equipped but I would recommend the optional THX II surround sound system ($995), which is included with the ultimate package ($5,595).
The ultimate package also adds a power moon roof, adaptive HID headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, ambient lighting, voice-activated navigation system, blind spot information system, rear-view camera and 17-inch chrome wheels.
My 2010 Lincoln MKZ tester had the ultimate package, along with the sport appearance package ($1,295 or $795 when ordered with the ultimate package).
The sport package adds a sport-tuned suspension, unique seating, interior aluminum trim, unique floor mats, unique grille (chrome with black bars), darkened headlamps, body-color door handles and 18-inch polished aluminum wheels.
The 2010 Lincoln MKZ is a beautiful car with a pleasing ride and luxuriously quiet cabin. Take one for a ride and you'll be glad you did.
2010 LINCOLN MKZENGINE: 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6
TRANSMISSION: six-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: all-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 17 city/24 highway
BASE PRICE: $36,005
AS TESTED: $43,245 (including $850 for destination)
www.Lincoln.com