Ride and handling Lincoln style
Irrespective of those dynamics, the MKZ delivers a well-controlled smooth ride. As a waist-expanding middle-aged male, a smooth ride has eclipsed my desire for razor sharp handling. The MKZ finds the perfect balance between the two. I wouldn't go so far as to use the word "plush" to describe absorbency but little road degradation finds its way into the MKZ's soothing cabin. The comfort level doesn't come at the cost of athleticism. The MKZ is reassuring and secure in long, high-speed benders. You can actually have a little fun with the car's spirited soul.

The MKZ's handling is well-controlled and very smooth.

If fun runs over the top, the four-wheel antilock disc brakes will bring matters to a rapid, secure and predictable stop. I found the calibration of both the throttle and brakes in the MKZ to be well suited for smooth, neck-snap free driving- just as a luxury car should be. And luxury abounds. My tester was loaded with optional heated and cooled leather seats along with everything one would expect in a Lincoln save for the available navigation system. The tightly assembled interior featured real wood trim and high-grade materials throughout.

It may be small but it's still a Lincoln
Although the unique architecture in the MKZ's cabin is award winning, I would personally prefer a softer, more flowing theme. But design appreciation is personal. I can say unequivocally that Lincoln did a tremendous job in morphing the shell of a Fusion into a Lincoln- good on them. The car looks great from the outside. I particularly like the vehicle's bold, waterfall grille and slab-like taillights.

Regardless of how visually attractive a luxury car may be, the real measure of its worth is in its comfort level and driving dynamics. By these standards, the MKZ is a hit. Whether inching through city traffic or cruising a long ribbon of highway tarmac, I enjoyed my time behind the vehicle's leather and wood trimmed steering wheel. The MKZ is remarkably quiet. Very little road and wind noise penetrates the heavily muted living space, making life in the little Lincoln very relaxing indeed.

The Lincoln's interior design is unique and comfortable.