What further sets the hybrid apart, other than badging on the car's flanks, is what Lincoln calls SmartGauge. The plethora of available information and EcoGuide “coaching” system are displayed on two 4.3-inch LCD screens on each side of the centre-mounted speedometer. Although the gauges are stunning to look at, I found them to be distracting, and once I selected my settings I never returned through the countless menus.
On the road, the MKZ Hybrid is most agreeable. There is clear and current evolution taking place with hybrid technology at the moment. Miranda recently blogged about it after having spent a week at the wheel of the Lexus CT 200h. I took that cool little hatchback for a spin and also noticed these improvements.
Brought on by the current influx of EVs, hybrids now have to match their smoothness of operation to that of a fully electric, transmission-free car. The well documented jerkiness of hybrids of old is now behind us. The MKZ's powertrain is as fluid as a perfectly chilled white wine being poured into a glass in a TV commercial.
In fact, I'd say that the MKZ offers one of the glassiest powertrains in the hybrid business. With 191 hp put together between the 2.5L 4-cylinder gas engine and permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric motor, the Lincoln not so much as rolls as it glides forward.
The CVT is well matched to the motivators and further enhances the efficiency of the under-bonnet duo. With plenty of torque on tap, the MKZ is never lacking, and given that it has no real love for fuel, you'll save lots of time getting around. Ford states that the hybrid can average as little as 5.0 L/100km, however, my week-long test drive was far less impressive. When I think about it, I consumed 50% more than “indicated,” with a median result of 7.5 L/100km. Admittedly, the A/C was on often, however, most of the commuting took place in the city where the hybrid system should shine.
As far as driving the MKZ is concerned, there is no settling as with most current hybrids. In fact, the vehicle's regenerative functions were far less intrusive and active than in other similar vehicles I've evaluated in the past. Typically, on compression or coasting, regeneration or capture of energy occurs and recharges the battery. The MKZ would only do so on one out of two occasions.
 |
| The plethora of available information and EcoGuide “coaching” system are displayed on two 4.3-inch LCD screens on each side of the centre-mounted speedometer. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
On the road, the MKZ Hybrid is most agreeable. There is clear and current evolution taking place with hybrid technology at the moment. Miranda recently blogged about it after having spent a week at the wheel of the Lexus CT 200h. I took that cool little hatchback for a spin and also noticed these improvements.
Brought on by the current influx of EVs, hybrids now have to match their smoothness of operation to that of a fully electric, transmission-free car. The well documented jerkiness of hybrids of old is now behind us. The MKZ's powertrain is as fluid as a perfectly chilled white wine being poured into a glass in a TV commercial.
In fact, I'd say that the MKZ offers one of the glassiest powertrains in the hybrid business. With 191 hp put together between the 2.5L 4-cylinder gas engine and permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric motor, the Lincoln not so much as rolls as it glides forward.
The CVT is well matched to the motivators and further enhances the efficiency of the under-bonnet duo. With plenty of torque on tap, the MKZ is never lacking, and given that it has no real love for fuel, you'll save lots of time getting around. Ford states that the hybrid can average as little as 5.0 L/100km, however, my week-long test drive was far less impressive. When I think about it, I consumed 50% more than “indicated,” with a median result of 7.5 L/100km. Admittedly, the A/C was on often, however, most of the commuting took place in the city where the hybrid system should shine.
As far as driving the MKZ is concerned, there is no settling as with most current hybrids. In fact, the vehicle's regenerative functions were far less intrusive and active than in other similar vehicles I've evaluated in the past. Typically, on compression or coasting, regeneration or capture of energy occurs and recharges the battery. The MKZ would only do so on one out of two occasions.
 |
| With 191 hp put together between the 2.5L 4-cylinder gas engine and permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric motor, the Lincoln not so much as rolls as it glides forward. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |