The 2012 New MKZ: Lincoln’s Future Begins
“The new Lincoln MKZ represents the future of Lincoln in both style and substance,” said Jim Farley, Group Vice President, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. “It is proof of our commitment to deliver a new breed of Lincolns for a new generation of Lincoln clients – motor cars that are distinctive, elegant, full of technology and a delight to own.”
Camera- and Radar-Based Driving Aids
The new Lincoln MKZ offers the Lane Keeping System, a suite of advanced driving aids that helps drivers avoid drifting from their lane due to distraction or fatigue. Consisting of Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Assist, the Lane Keeping System utilizes a mono-vision camera integrated into the rearview mirror to read the lane markers ahead. For a more complete description of the Lane Keeping System, click here.
Available radar-based (ultrasonic) driving aids further enhance the driving experience. Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support each use a long-range radar system that scans in front of the vehicle, automatically adjusting to traffic speed and providing a visual and audible alert when a potential front-end collision is detected.
Active park assist and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert use multiple short-range wide-angle radar sensors. Each function provides a distinct benefit, ranging from making parallel parking easier to warning of oncoming vehicles while backing out of a parking space.
SYNC with MyLincoln Touch
SYNC with MyLincoln Touch is standard in the new MKZ. The combined system makes it easier to use the entertainment, climate and available navigation features as well as devices brought into the car (e.g., phones, PDA, MP3 players). Twin five-way controls on the steering wheel manage essential systems, and many functions can be voice-activated via SYNC.
Standard SYNC Services make turn-by-turn directions available via one button push and simple voice commands. Continually improving voice recognition software learns user voices, improving the efficiency of voice commands.
ENGINEERING
MKZ Dynamic Driving Technologies
The new MKZ offers Lincoln Drive Control as standard. Lincoln Drive Control is an automatic system that delivers an ideal balance of a smooth ride with confident handling as it intuitively responds to driver commands and the road, making the 2013 model the most refined and engaging MKZ ever.
Always on, Lincoln Drive Control orchestrates the performance of the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), engine, transmission, Active Noise Control (ANC), traction control and stability control systems.
The result is an unsurpassed combination of refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. CCD offers three modes (Sport/Normal/Comfort) that are accessible using MyLincoln Touch. Selecting “Sport” on the Push Button Shift gear selector enables a decidedly more sporty driving experience.
CCD contributes to Lincoln Drive Control’s transparent action by monitoring the car’s suspension settings up to 500 times per second. The real-time system adjusts the suspension up to 50 times per second to deliver more controlled handling with a smoother ride. CCD augments a highly developed chassis that includes a refined strut front suspension and an all new integral link rear suspension.
The new MKZ is the only sedan in its class to include Continuously Controlled Damping and Active Noise Control as standard equipment.
MKZ Engines, Transmissions and Drive Systems
The 2013 Lincoln MKZ offers three distinct powertrains. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost® delivers the performance of a traditional V6 along with expected segment-leading fuel economy that is at least 3 mpg better than the closest competitor. This engine delivers a projected 20-percent increase in highway fuel economy versus the 2012 MKZ.
Emphasizing performance and efficiency, the optional 3.7-liter V6 produces significantly more power (37 horsepower and 28 lb.-ft. of torque) than the previous MKZ V6 while improving fuel economy approximately 5 percent.
Maximizing fuel efficiency, the optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain is expected to enable the 2013 MKZ Hybrid to remain North America’s most fuel-efficient premium sedan. The 2012 MKZ Hybrid is rated at 41 city mpg, 36 highway mpg
The 2013 Lincoln MKZ enters the midsize luxury segment later this year.
– It is the first Lincoln created by a dedicated team in its new Lincoln Design Studio
– With a sweeping profile, MKZ incorporates one of the world’s widest-opening retractable glass roofs
– Lincoln Drive Control is an intelligent system that delivers a refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. Standard Lincoln Drive Control intuitively integrates multiple systems (engine, transmission, body and chassis) to deliver totally new Lincoln driving quality
– MKZ innovations include a distinct Push Button Shift gear selector that enables flowing and architectural center console design
– A quiet, well-appointed interior is enhanced by standard Active Noise Control, genuine wood trim, full LCD instrumentation, heated front seats and SYNC® with MyLincoln Touch™
– MKZ is offered with a choice of three powerful, efficient powertrains, including a next-generation hybrid expected to ensure the MKZ remains America’s most fuel-efficient premium sedan
– Class-exclusive available inflatable rear safety belts supplement eight standard airbags
Source: Lincoln
