The Lincoln MKZ II, specifically the 2.0 GTDI (245 Hp) AWD Automatic variant produced from 2016 to 2020, represented a significant step in Lincoln’s attempt to recapture a foothold in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. This facelifted version of the MKZ, built on the Ford CD4 platform (shared with the Ford Fusion and Mazda 6), aimed to offer a blend of American comfort, modern technology, and a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the MKZ lineup, it slotted between the base 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and the more powerful 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | MKZ |
| Generation | MKZ II (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 GTDI (245 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 210.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 122.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 3000 rpm (275.11 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EcoBoost |
| Engine displacement | 1999 cm3 (121.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.1 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1769 kg (3899.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 436 l (15.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4925 mm (193.9 in.) |
| Width | 1864 mm (73.39 in.) |
| Height | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18 V |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the MKZ 2.0 GTDI AWD Automatic lies Ford’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, utilizes direct fuel injection combined with a single turbocharger and intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine code is generally associated with the EcoBoost series, and specific calibrations varied slightly year to year. The 2.0L EcoBoost features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance across the rev range. The six-speed automatic transmission, marketed as SelectShift, offered a degree of driver control with manual shift capability. The all-wheel-drive system employed a sophisticated electronic clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque provided by the 2.0 GTDI engine delivered respectable acceleration for a mid-size luxury sedan. While not as overtly sporty as some of its European rivals, the MKZ offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The automatic transmission was generally smooth and responsive, although some reviewers noted a slight hesitation during kickdown. The AWD system provided confident handling in inclement weather, but added weight compared to front-wheel-drive models. Compared to the base 2.5L engine, the 2.0 GTDI offered a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more fuel-efficient than the 3.0L twin-turbo V6. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and highway cruising, with a focus on providing a relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The MKZ 2.0 GTDI AWD Automatic typically came standard with features such as leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a premium audio system. Lincoln’s SYNC infotainment system, with its touchscreen display, was also standard. Available options included a navigation system, a rear-view camera, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and a power moonroof. Higher trim levels, such as the Reserve, added features like heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and wood trim accents. The interior design emphasized comfort and luxury, with soft-touch materials and a spacious cabin.
Chassis & Braking
The MKZ’s chassis featured an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over outright sportiness. The MKZ 2.0 GTDI AWD Automatic came equipped with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, along with electronic stability control. The steering was electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel. The AWD system added weight, which slightly impacted handling agility compared to front-wheel-drive models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lincoln MKZ 2.0 GTDI AWD Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available technology features. However, some reviewers found the styling to be somewhat bland and the driving experience less engaging than some of its European competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment, with the combined rating of 23.1 US mpg. Compared to the base 2.5L engine, the 2.0 GTDI offered a significant performance improvement, while the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 provided even more power but at a higher price and with lower fuel economy. Reliability reports were generally favorable, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Lincoln MKZ 2.0 GTDI AWD Automatic represents a transitional period for the Lincoln brand. While it didn’t achieve the sales success of some of its rivals, it demonstrated Lincoln’s commitment to offering a competitive product in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. The 2.0L EcoBoost engine proved to be a reliable and efficient powerplant, and the MKZ’s comfortable ride and spacious interior appealed to many buyers. On the used car market, these MKZs offer a good value proposition, providing a comfortable and well-equipped luxury sedan at a reasonable price. The powertrain, while not without its minor quirks, has proven to be relatively durable with proper maintenance, making it a viable option for buyers seeking a dependable and refined vehicle.
