Used 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Sedan Review & Ratings

The new 2012 Lincoln MKZ hybrid sedan is a relatively affordable luxury car that is all about options. Its eco-friendly options extend well beyond the typical hybrid's high gas mileage. The engine creatively finds the perfect balance between stunning horsepower and impressive gas mileage. The state-of-the-art technology featured throughout the automobile is designed to combine the best features of safety and comfort available in luxury cars. It's no wonder that the Lincoln MKZ received a J.D. Power award two years in a row. Consumers can usually expect to pay a little more for the Lincoln MKZ than other cars in its class.

For two years in a row, the luxurious Lincoln MKZ has received a J.D. Power award for being the "most dependable entry premium car." No other vehicle received fewer problem reports in its class. The vehicle received a four star rating on a five star scale for its safety features. The insurance institute for highway safety provided a "Good" rating for the Lincoln MKZ's safety measures. However, the car did take a little longer than many expect to stop; 132 feet at 60mph.

Although slightly redesigned, the car's exterior still features the classic look that Lincoln is known for. While this may appease enthusiasts in some circles, it provides a generally outdated look that makes it seem as if it's almost stuck in the early 2000s. However, an available sports appearance package provides a refreshing update to the body. The aluminum wheels and chrome grille finally provide that modern look that so many Lincoln MKZ fans have been waiting for.

The interior, on the other hand, offers the best modern styles with a slightly classic touch. The leather bucket seats provide the perfect combination of beauty and comfort. They also feature a unique Bridge of Weir trim, enhancing the luxurious look of the 2012 Lincoln MKZ's interior. The wood trim around the dashboard and steering wheel offer a touch of class, though it does seem somewhat out of place if dark colors are used throughout the rest of the cab. The dashboard utilizes the latest technology in providing an LCD display featuring all of the gauges. This is one of the most impressive aspects of the vehicle that will set it apart from others in its class. Plenty of room is provided for individuals of all sizes in both the front and rear seats. With the addition of the sports package, leather-trimmed seats and subtle chrome trims throughout other parts of the car enhance its style even further.

The Lincoln MKZ's gauge cluster features a vibrant LCD screen and a customizable interface. These gauges offer the usual important information, including the amount of fuel left and the engine's temperature. It then goes further to inform the driver of their current fuel economy, the remaining charge left in the battery engine and much more. The display can be easily controlled by using the steering wheel's integrated buttons.

When it comes to green technology, the 2012 Lincoln MKZ does not disappoint. The hood houses a combined gas and electric power engine that provides 191 horsepower, yet consumes only a combined 39 mpg. No fuel is consumed if the car maintains a speed of no more than 47 mph. The car can even recharge the battery powered engine without using fuel; instead, it redistributes the energy produced by breaking to recharge the battery pack. A single 17.5 gallon fill up is enough to fuel this car for 700 miles. On the rare occasion that the car actually does visit a gas station, the fuel filler allows the owner to insert a gas hose without ever having to touch a gas cap, eliminating any chance of the hands coming in contact with the gasoline (at least on the car's behalf). Even the motor available with the non-hybrid version is impressive: a 263 hp V6 that still gets 27 MPG on the highway.

As any luxury car should, the Lincoln MKZ provides superior safety features that utilize the latest technology. The Cross Traffic Alert System warns the driver of any approaching vehicles if their view is obstructed while backing up. The headlights are designed to pivot as the driver turns the wheel, expanding the total view to reveal any possible hazards. The chassis is designed to provide a safety cage for passengers, while six airbags protect them from every angle. Even the Lincoln MKZ's mirrors are designed to alert drivers if objects have entered the blind spot.