Learn more about the Lincoln MKZ
 Build & Price your Lincoln MKZ

The 2009 Lincoln MKZ offers an impressively long list of standard performance and luxury features, an entertaining driving experience, an affordable price and, something offered by few others in its class, optional all-wheel drive.

The midsize 2009 Lincoln MKZ starts around $32,000 with fully equipped AWD versions going for about $40,000. To put that in perspective, the Lexus ES350 has a base price of about $34,000. And that doesn't include several features that are no-cost standards on the MKZ. Fully loaded, the Lexus comes within shouting distance of $45,000. The ES350 does not offer AWD.

Conventional all-wheel-drive systems simply move torque to the rear when the front tires spin, or to the fronts when the rears slip. However, the Lincoln's AWD system can also transfer torque from side to side to make sure the tires with the highest grip get the most power. The computer measures such things as vehicle speed and how much the driver is turning the steering wheel and pressing the gas pedal to make sure power is used most efficiently. Even if only one tire has grip, the Lincoln's AWD will keep the MKZ moving forward.

Also aiding the driver in maintaining control is the newly standard for 2009 electronic stability control. Called AdvanceTrac^®, this system helps prevent the car from spinning out on slippery pavement. Other active safety features standard on the 2009 Lincoln MKZ include all-speed traction control and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. In addition, the MKZ has a total of six standard airbags, which include full-length side-curtain bags that help prevent head injuries in side impact.

The 2008 model MKZ earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest rating in 40-mph frontal offset crash tests and its second-best rating in side-impact tests. In Federal government crash tests, the MKZ earned the top five-star rating in frontal and side impacts for the front-seat passengers. For rear passengers, the MKZ scored a four out of five.

Only one engine is available in the MKZ, but it's a potent 3.5-liter double-overhead-cam V-6 that features aluminum-alloy block and heads and four valves per cylinder. This V6 from the Duratec engine family makes a peak of 263 horsepower at 6,250 rpm, while peak torque of 249 pound-feet occurs at a very usable 4,500 rpm. It's mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. The government rates MKZ fuel mileage at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for front-wheeldrive models and 17/24 for the heavier AWD versions.

Inside, many will first notice the real maple or ebony wood trim on dash and doors, though some models have brushed aluminum trim instead of wood. Others will remark on the leather seating surfaces both front and rear. Front seats are heated, cooled and feature 10-way power adjustments. The rear seats use a spring assist to fold forward in a 60/40 split to reveal a pass through into the trunk. Combined with a very large trunk, the MKZ can carry an impressive load.

The standard premium sound system features a six-disc in-dash CD changer, MP3 capability and six speakers. Lincoln's Sync™ hands-free communication system is standard. Developed with Microsoft^®, this allows voice operation of entertainment, media players, and climate control systems, as well as Bluetooth^®- enabled cell phones. USB and MP3 audio jacks are also standard.

The MKZ is configured for SIRIUS satellite radio. The subscription is free for the first six months.

All MKZ have a dual-zone climate control system. Keyless entry is standard, and eliminates the worry of misplacing your keys or leaving them in the car. MKZ taillights are very bright lightemitting diodes (LED). Another standard system—Reverse Sensing System—warns of hidden objects—tricycles, pets, children—behind the vehicle.

Popular options include 17-inch-diameter chromed aluminum wheels, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, a power moonroof, a THX II-certified 600-watt, 14-speaker audio system, remote start system, and a voice-activated DVD-based satellite navigation system.

New for 2009 is the optional Midnight Black Special Edition package. This is highlighted by maple wood interior trim on the steering wheel, doors and dash. There's also premium "Bridge of Weir" leather seating surfaces with contrast-colored piping.

The MKZ Ultimate Package includes 17-inch chrome wheels, THX II Certified sound system, voice-activated Navigation System, HID headlights and moonroof.

The MKZ was first introduced as a 2007 model, but has nicely evolved thanks to a more powerful engine and refined styling. Those looking for a powerful, well-equipped, affordable luxury car should make sure they test drive a 2009 Lincoln MKZ.