As the 2010 New York Auto Show kicked off earlier this week, Lincoln has something to be excited about. Today, Lincoln introduced the 2011 MKZ, the luxury brand’s first hybrid.
Jonathan Richards, the MKZ Hybrid Marketing Manager, believes that about 40% of MKZ customers are interested in a hybrid version, while about 50% of those in the market for a sedan comparable to the MKZ would like a hybrid. Therefore, Richards believes that “…this is an opportunity for conquest for Lincoln, and most importantly, to broaden the appeal of Lincoln beyond its current owner base”.
While Lincoln has already benefiting from the all-new EcoBoost engines and improvements to Sync infotainment, they have also been No. 2 in the JD Power and Associates annual U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study rankings. Not too shabby for a company who has had a quiet past couple years.
The new MKZ may look somewhat similar to the Ford Fusion, but consider this your luxurious alternative to the that and the Mercury Milan. To do so, the MKZ has stepped up their interior as well. By incorporating Scottish “Bridge of Weir” leather seats, a walnut trim interior, heated and cooled front seats, a warning system alerting the driver if an object is close by when the car is moving in reverse, and an ignition key that has the ability to limit top speed and the stereo volume – just in case the kids take the car our for a whirl – the 2011 Lincoln MKZ will be looking to compete head on with the Lexus HS 250h.
With an approximated 41 miles per gallon, the MKZ combines both luxury and efficiency… to the delight of many. Add to that a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine and two electric motors producing 191 horsepower, and the MKZ is truly something special.
Expect sales to begin in fall of 2010. Although pricing has not been officially announced, it seems as thought it will begin at around $38,000.
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