2025 Lincoln MKZ: Complete Luxury Sedan Review

Introduction

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ represents the perfect embodiment of American luxury, combining traditional comfort and refinement with modern technology and performance. As Lincoln's midsize luxury sedan, the MKZ delivers a unique blend of comfort, style, and value that appeals to buyers seeking a more accessible alternative to European luxury brands. This comprehensive review examines every aspect of the MKZ to help you understand why it's considered one of the best values in the luxury sedan market.

Built on Lincoln's Quiet Luxury philosophy, the MKZ combines the brand's legendary comfort and refinement with modern luxury and performance. The sedan is available in multiple configurations, from the efficient base model to the high-performance Reserve variant, ensuring there's a model to suit different priorities and budgets. Whether you're looking for comfortable daily commuting or elegant weekend driving, the MKZ delivers with characteristic Lincoln sophistication.

What sets the MKZ apart from its competitors is its commitment to American luxury values, including comfort, refinement, and accessibility. The result is a vehicle that offers the luxury and performance expected from a premium sedan while maintaining the practical, approachable character that Lincoln is known for.

Exterior Design

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ features a sophisticated, elegant design that embodies American luxury while maintaining the contemporary styling expected from a modern luxury sedan. The front end is dominated by Lincoln's signature grille with the distinctive crosshatch pattern, flanked by the elegant LED headlights that give the MKZ a refined and recognizable appearance. The overall design language is cohesive and modern, with clean lines and purposeful details throughout.

The MKZ's profile is elegant and aerodynamic, with a low, wide stance that emphasizes its luxury credentials while maintaining the understated sophistication that Lincoln is known for. The roofline flows smoothly from the front to the rear, creating a sleek silhouette that's both timeless and contemporary. The sedan's design prioritizes both aesthetics and function, with careful attention to aerodynamic details that help improve fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise.

Build quality is excellent throughout, with precise panel gaps, high-quality materials, and attention to detail that's expected from a luxury brand. The MKZ feels solid and well-constructed, with a sense of permanence that suggests it will age gracefully. The available Reserve and Black Label packages add more distinctive styling elements, including larger wheels, unique trim pieces, and exclusive color options that enhance the MKZ's luxury appearance.

Lighting is a particular highlight, with Lincoln's LED headlights providing excellent visibility and a distinctive appearance. The adaptive LED headlights automatically adjust their beam pattern based on driving conditions, while the taillights feature a unique design that's instantly recognizable as Lincoln. The overall exterior design successfully balances elegance and sophistication, creating a vehicle that looks both luxurious and approachable.

Interior Quality and Comfort

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ's interior represents the pinnacle of American luxury, with materials and craftsmanship that justify its premium positioning. The cabin is dominated by Lincoln's latest SYNC infotainment system, which features a large, intuitive touchscreen that provides easy access to various functions while maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic that Lincoln is known for.

Seating comfort is exceptional, with supportive front seats that provide excellent comfort for long drives while maintaining the plush, luxurious feel that Lincoln is known for. The seats are available in multiple configurations, including luxury seats with additional comfort features and sport seats with enhanced bolstering. The rear seats offer good space for adults, with adequate headroom and legroom for most passengers.

Interior materials are of high quality, with premium leather, wood trim, and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin. The attention to detail is impressive, with carefully crafted stitching, precise fit and finish, and thoughtful design elements that enhance the overall experience. The MKZ's interior feels like a proper luxury vehicle, with a level of refinement that matches or exceeds its competitors.

Noise levels are impressively low, with Lincoln implementing active noise cancellation and acoustic glass to create a quiet cabin environment. The result is a serene driving experience that allows you to enjoy the premium audio system or simply appreciate the quiet operation of the powertrain. The overall interior experience is comfortable and luxurious, with a level of sophistication that reflects Lincoln's commitment to Quiet Luxury.

Performance and Powertrain

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ is available in multiple powertrain configurations, each offering different performance characteristics and efficiency levels. The base model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides excellent performance with a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds and an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.

The Reserve configuration features a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides strong performance with a 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds while maintaining good fuel economy. The hybrid variant represents the efficiency-focused option, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor that produces 188 horsepower and provides excellent fuel economy.

All configurations feature Lincoln's all-wheel drive system, which provides excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions. The system can send up to 50% of the engine's power to the rear wheels and can distribute that power between the left and right wheels for improved cornering performance. This makes the MKZ particularly capable in challenging driving conditions.

Driving dynamics are refined and comfortable, with the MKZ maintaining Lincoln's reputation for smooth, composed handling. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sportiness, providing excellent ride quality while maintaining adequate responsiveness for spirited driving. The MKZ feels stable and secure on the highway, with excellent high-speed stability and minimal wind noise.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Fuel economy is a crucial consideration for any luxury sedan, and the 2025 Lincoln MKZ delivers competitive numbers that should satisfy most drivers' needs. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, which is good for a luxury sedan with this level of performance. The 2.3-liter turbocharged engine provides 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, which is still respectable given its performance capabilities.

The hybrid variant provides the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. This makes it an excellent choice for buyers who want both luxury and efficiency, as it can operate in electric mode for short trips while providing strong performance when needed.

Real-world fuel economy will vary based on driving style, weather, and other factors, but most owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates. The MKZ's efficient powertrain and aerodynamic design help maximize fuel economy, while the available drive modes allow drivers to optimize performance or efficiency based on their needs.

For buyers who prioritize maximum efficiency, the hybrid variant provides the best fuel economy while still delivering excellent performance. The base 2.0-liter engine offers a good balance of performance and efficiency, while the 2.3-liter engine prioritizes performance over efficiency.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ features Lincoln's latest SYNC infotainment system, which represents a significant improvement over previous generations in terms of technology and user experience. The system is centered around a large, intuitive 8-inch touchscreen that provides easy access to various functions while maintaining the clean, user-friendly aesthetic that Lincoln is known for.

The infotainment system is responsive and intuitive to use, with clear menus and logical organization that makes it easy to find and access various functions. The system supports both touch and voice control, as well as steering wheel controls for those who prefer them. The interface is clean and modern, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.

Smartphone integration is excellent, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto providing seamless access to your phone's apps and features. The system also includes Lincoln's Connected Services, which provide real-time traffic information, remote vehicle functions, and emergency assistance. The MKZ can also function as a Wi-Fi hotspot, providing internet connectivity for passengers.

Audio quality is exceptional, with the available Revel premium audio system providing rich, detailed sound reproduction. The system includes 14 speakers and a 600-watt amplifier, creating an immersive audio experience that's perfect for music enthusiasts. The system also includes advanced features like wireless charging for compatible devices.

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ comes standard with Lincoln's comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The MKZ has received good safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, providing peace of mind for safety-conscious buyers.

Additional safety features available on higher trims include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. These features enhance situational awareness and help prevent common types of accidents. The MKZ's advanced driver assistance systems provide a good level of automation while maintaining driver engagement and control.

In the event of a collision, the MKZ's structure is designed to protect occupants effectively, with advanced airbag systems and crumple zones that help absorb impact energy. Lincoln has a good reputation for safety, and the MKZ benefits from this expertise with comprehensive safety systems and robust construction.

Child safety features include LATCH anchors for car seats and rear door child locks. The MKZ's rear doors open wide, making it easy to install and remove child seats. The compact size also makes it easier to keep an eye on children in the back seat, which is important for parents.

Driving Experience

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ provides a refined and comfortable driving experience that emphasizes luxury and comfort over sportiness. The powertrain delivers smooth, linear power delivery that makes the MKZ feel responsive and capable, particularly in the Reserve configuration where the 2.3-liter engine provides abundant power and torque. The transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Ride quality is excellent, with the suspension effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections while maintaining the composed, controlled feel that Lincoln is known for. The MKZ feels stable and secure on the highway, with excellent high-speed stability and minimal wind noise. The all-wheel drive system enhances confidence in all weather conditions.

Handling is competent but not particularly engaging, with the MKZ prioritizing comfort and stability over sportiness. The steering is well-weighted and provides adequate feedback, making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it. The MKZ feels planted and confident in corners, with good body control and predictable handling characteristics.

Overall, the MKZ excels at providing a comfortable, refined driving experience that maintains Lincoln's core values of Quiet Luxury. It's not the most exciting car to drive, but it's exceptionally well-suited to its intended purpose of providing comfortable, luxurious transportation for daily commuting and long-distance travel.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ benefits from Lincoln's improving reputation for reliability and dependability, with a track record that has been steadily improving in recent years. The powertrain is well-engineered and has been tested extensively, with fewer reported issues or problems than in previous generations. This reliability translates to lower maintenance costs and greater peace of mind for owners.

Routine maintenance is straightforward and follows Lincoln's recommended service intervals. The MKZ's powertrain is designed for longevity, with components that are built to last and easy to service. The all-wheel drive system is also reliable and requires minimal maintenance, making it a practical choice for long-term ownership.

Resale value is generally good for the MKZ, as Lincoln vehicles tend to hold their value reasonably well over time. The combination of reliability, luxury, and value makes the MKZ an attractive choice for used car buyers, which helps maintain its resale value. The Reserve and Black Label variants typically hold their value even better due to their luxury credentials.

Insurance costs are generally reasonable for the MKZ, as it's not considered a high-risk vehicle and has good safety ratings. However, insurance costs can vary significantly based on location, driving history, and other factors, so it's important to get quotes from multiple insurers to find the best rate.

Pricing and Value

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ's pricing makes it one of the best values in the luxury sedan segment, with a starting MSRP of $36,800 for the base model and $48,200 for the Reserve variant. These prices put the MKZ in competition with mainstream luxury sedans while offering features and capabilities that rival more expensive European competitors.

When compared to its direct competitors, the MKZ offers excellent value for money, with similar performance and features at a lower price point. The base model provides luxury and performance that rivals sedans costing $10,000-$15,000 more, while the Reserve variant offers luxury features that compete with much more expensive luxury sedans.

Total cost of ownership is generally favorable for the MKZ, with good fuel economy, low maintenance costs, and reasonable resale value helping to offset the initial purchase price. The combination of reliability and luxury makes the MKZ an excellent long-term investment for buyers who want both value and refinement.

For buyers who prioritize value without sacrificing luxury or comfort, the MKZ represents an excellent choice that offers the best of both worlds. It's not the cheapest sedan on the market, but it's one of the best values in the luxury segment, offering luxury and features that justify its price point.

Competitors Comparison

The 2025 Lincoln MKZ competes in a crowded segment of luxury sedans, including the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Acura TLX. Each of these vehicles offers different strengths and weaknesses, making the choice largely dependent on individual priorities and preferences.

The BMW 3 Series offers similar performance and handling but features more advanced technology and a more prestigious brand image. However, the 3 Series is more expensive than the MKZ, and the MKZ offers better value for money and more comfortable ride quality. The MKZ also provides better reliability and lower maintenance costs.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers similar luxury and technology but features a more refined interior and more advanced autonomous driving capabilities. However, the C-Class is more expensive than the MKZ, and the MKZ offers better value for money and more comfortable ride quality. The MKZ also provides better reliability and lower ownership costs.

The Audi A4 offers similar technology and all-wheel drive but features a more conservative design and less distinctive styling. However, the A4 is more expensive than the MKZ, and the MKZ offers better value for money and more distinctive American luxury styling. The MKZ also provides better comfort and more engaging design.

Overall, the MKZ's combination of value, comfort, and American luxury makes it a strong choice in the luxury sedan segment, offering a compelling alternative to more expensive European competitors while maintaining Lincoln's unique identity and values.