The Lincoln MKZ, specifically the facelifted first generation produced from 2010 to 2012, represented Lincoln’s entry into the mid-size luxury sedan segment. This iteration of the MKZ aimed to blend American comfort with a more contemporary design and available technology. The 3.5L V6 24V (263 Hp) Automatic variant occupied a central position in the MKZ lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability, appealing to buyers seeking a step up from the base 3.5L model without the added cost of the hybrid powertrain. It was a key model for Lincoln during a period of brand repositioning, attempting to attract a younger, more sophisticated clientele.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | MKZ |
| Generation | MKZ I (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 161.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 263 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 338 Nm @ 4500 rpm (249.3 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Cyclone |
| Engine displacement | 3496 cm3 (213.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, i-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1632 kg (3597.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 467 l (16.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4821 mm (189.8 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Height | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2728 mm (107.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 V |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this MKZ variant is the 3.5-liter Cyclone V6 engine. This engine, part of Ford’s Cyclone family, is a naturally aspirated, 24-valve DOHC engine featuring variable valve timing (i-VCT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The multi-port fuel injection system delivers fuel directly to the intake ports, optimizing combustion. The engine produces 263 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 249 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration were standard for this platform. Paired with the engine is a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. This transmission offered a balance of smooth shifting and responsive performance, with the ability for the driver to manually select gears when desired. The transmission was tuned for comfort and efficiency, prioritizing a relaxed driving experience over aggressive shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5L V6 Automatic MKZ delivered a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.6 seconds, making it adequately quick for everyday driving and highway merging. While not a sports sedan, the engine provided sufficient power for confident passing maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly sporty, with gear changes prioritizing fuel economy over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the manual transmission equipped MKZ, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. The higher-output hybrid variant offered better fuel economy, while the base 3.5L model was more affordable. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride, but it didn’t offer the same level of handling precision as some of its European competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5L V6 Automatic MKZ typically came standard with features such as leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rear-view camera, and a moonroof. Trim levels varied, but generally, this engine/transmission combination was offered in the base MKZ and a mid-level trim. The mid-level trim added features like heated front seats, upgraded interior trim, and additional safety features. The interior design focused on a blend of modern aesthetics and traditional luxury, with a focus on comfortable seating and user-friendly controls.
Chassis & Braking
The MKZ utilized an independent coil spring suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between rigidity and weight reduction. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. Standard tire size was 225/50 R17, mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the MKZ 3.5L V6 Automatic for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain. However, some reviewers noted that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its competitors, and the interior design, while attractive, lacked the visual flair of some European luxury sedans. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to the MKZ Hybrid, the 3.5L V6 offered more traditional performance but lower fuel efficiency. Compared to the base 3.5L model, the automatic transmission provided added convenience, but some drivers preferred the greater control offered by the manual transmission.
Legacy
The Lincoln MKZ 3.5L V6 Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as a solid and reliable mid-size luxury sedan. The Cyclone V6 engine proved to be durable and relatively maintenance-free. On the used car market, these MKZs are generally considered a good value, offering a comfortable and well-equipped driving experience at an affordable price. Common issues are relatively minor, often related to routine maintenance items like sensors and electrical components. The MKZ helped Lincoln establish a foothold in the mid-size luxury segment and paved the way for future iterations of the model.
