DRIVEN: Is The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid More Than A Dressed Up Fusion?

The biggest problem facing Lincoln isn't whether or not it is simply a good car but whether it is worth the extra coin over the Fusion Hybrid.

Not only do they offer the many of the same features but they also have run off the same powerplant.

We want to know, does the Lincoln nameplate sway you or do you find the Fusion Hybrid to be the better buy?

This is the first-ever hybrid for Lincoln, a heady title for an impressive car. At its core, it's a dressed-up Fusion, but this Lincoln has a sense for style. And the price is exactly the same as that of its conventionally powered sibling: $35,180. So take your pick....

...The MKZ hybrid is well-executed and handsome with useful technology and sharp tailoring. It does everything you want a luxury hybrid sedan to do: It drives well, looks nice and gets solid fuel economy. It felt more powerful than the Lexus HS 250h, but Lincoln faces a tough battle against that vaunted nameplate. The Lincoln is better in many areas, but it could take time for consumers to realize that...

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atc98092 - 9/9/2010 8:36:46 AM

+4 Boost

If the MKZ had offered fold down rear seats, which the Fusion does not, then yes. However, if they can move the battery to restore the fold down function on both of them, then it's a tougher question. Since the Lincoln has some interior niceities the Fusion doesn't (cooled seats, for one) it would still be a consideration. However, I like the styling of the Fusion better (cough... grill, cough...)

veyron1001 - 9/9/2010 3:48:27 PM

+2 Boost

Nope

Caraficionado - 9/9/2010 5:03:44 PM

0 Boost

I'm starting to worry about Lincoln.

Also, here in NYC it doesn't help to see so many dinosaur town cars as livery cars.

thstone - 9/9/2010 5:07:02 PM

+4 Boost

One car, three brands, no differentiation - Ford, didn't you see what this did to GM?

LACMAN - 9/10/2010 10:04:12 AM

+2 Boost

Im assuming the restructuring (or dropping) of brands by Ford is going to do wonders for Lincoln in the long run. I suppose this will free up resources for the Lincoln brand to become an ENTIRELY unique brand in the future.

As for now, the answer to the question is no (other than style wise).