Is Lincoln MKZ considered a luxury car?
The Lincoln MKZ is a luxury midsize sedan produced by Lincoln, the luxury division of Ford. It is generally regarded as a luxury vehicle, offering premium interior materials, refined ride quality, and advance technologies; the model was discontinued after the 2020 model year as Lincoln refocused on SUVs and crossovers.
Where the MKZ fits in the luxury market
To understand its classification, it helps to consider Lincoln’s positioning as a luxury brand and the MKZ’s ride, interior quality, and feature set.
Brand and positioning
Lincoln is the United States’ longstanding luxury brand within the Ford Motor Company family. The MKZ was marketed as a premium sedan designed to compete in the entry-to-mid-range luxury segment rather than with high-end European rivals.
- Premium interior with soft-touch materials, leather seating, and wood or metal trim
- Comfort-focused ride quality tailored to quietness and refinement
- Upscale technological features and driver-assistance options
- Distinctive Lincoln styling cues, aligned with the brand’s luxury image
Overall, these attributes align the MKZ with traditional luxury sedans, even if it occupied a slightly lower price/brand tier than some European rivals.
Model history and notable features
The MKZ’s life spanned roughly a decade, during which it evolved in styling, technology, and powertrain options before ending production.
Generations and key updates
- Introduced for the 2010 model year as Lincoln’s entry into the midsize luxury sedan segment, built on Ford’s CD4 platform
- 2013 refresh with refreshed styling, interior updates, and upgraded tech
- 2017 mid-cycle update bringing sleeker design, enhanced interiors, and improved infotainment and safety features
- Hybrid variant offered in the early/mid-2010s, and turbocharged engine options in later years, with all-wheel drive available on select trims
- Discontinued after the 2020 model year as Lincoln shifted focus toward SUVs and crossovers
The MKZ offered a range of drivetrains, including EcoBoost turbocharged engines and, in its early years, a hybrid version, along with optional all-wheel drive on certain trims.
Competition and market perception
During its run, the MKZ competed against other mid- to entry-luxury sedans, including the Lexus ES, Acura TLX, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It leaned into comfort, quietness, and Lincoln’s premium branding rather than outright sportiness.
- Typically positioned as a more comfort- and quality-oriented option within the segment
- Often priced to undercut some European rivals while offering competitive interior quality and features
- Reliability and resale values were generally solid but varied by model year and configuration, as with many luxury sedans
In the market, the MKZ was appreciated for its serene cabin and Lincoln design language, but it faced strong competition from better-known luxury brands in terms of performance perception and long-term value.
Current status and buyer considerations
As of the 2020 model year, Lincoln discontinued the MKZ as part of a broader plant-and-product strategy focused on SUVs. For buyers today, the MKZ exists primarily in the used-car market, often appealing to customers who want a Lincoln luxury experience in a traditional sedan format. Prospective buyers should weigh retrofits, maintenance costs, and depreciation against newer luxury sedans in the segment.
Summary
The Lincoln MKZ is widely regarded as a luxury midsize sedan, reflecting Lincoln’s brand premium through its interior, ride, and tech features. Its production ran from 2010 to 2020, after which Lincoln pivoted toward a lineup dominated by SUVs and crossovers. For enthusiasts of premium, comfortable sedans, the MKZ remains a notable chapter in Lincoln’s luxury history, available today primarily on the used-car market.
Is a Lincoln MKZ considered a luxury car?
The Lincoln MKZ is a mid-size luxury car which was manufactured by Ford and marketed by its Lincoln brand.
What is the most luxury Lincoln?
The most luxurious Lincoln is the Lincoln Navigator, especially in its top-tier Black Label trim, which offers the brand's most opulent features and exclusive design themes. For a past limited-edition model, the 2019 Continental Coach Door Edition holds the record for the most expensive Lincoln ever sold at over $110,000.
Current models
- Lincoln Navigator: This large SUV is the brand's flagship for luxury, providing a premium and spacious interior with available features like heated and massaging seats, an expansive panoramic screen, and highly customizable second-row seating.
- Navigator Black Label: This specific trim elevates the Navigator's luxury to the highest level with exclusive interior themes inspired by global destinations, elevated service benefits, and premium materials.
Past models
- Lincoln Continental Coach Door Edition (2019): A limited-edition model featuring rare, center-opening "suicide doors," this was the most expensive Lincoln at launch, priced at over $110,000.
What is the classification of the Lincoln MKZ?
Midsize Luxury Sedan
Lincoln® MKZ | Midsize Luxury Sedan.
Are Lincoln's considered luxury cars?
Yes, Lincoln is considered a luxury brand, competing with other luxury marques like Lexus and Cadillac. Its luxury status is supported by premium features such as high-end comfort options like massaging seats, advanced technology like noise control and driver assistance systems, and exclusive Black Label trims. While some models share platforms with Ford vehicles, newer Lincolns differentiate themselves through design, materials, and amenities to define their luxury positioning.
Key features that define Lincoln as a luxury brand
- Premium comfort: Lincoln vehicles offer features like heated, ventilated, and massaging seats to enhance passenger comfort.
- Advanced technology: They are equipped with advanced features such as Active Noise Control, adaptive suspension, and sophisticated infotainment systems.
- Exclusive trims: The brand offers higher-end trims, like Black Label, which provide curated designs, premium materials, and exclusive owner benefits.
- Distinguishing design: Lincoln emphasizes its unique design language, with sleek lines and a timeless aesthetic, as seen in models like the Aviator and Navigator.
- Service and craftsmanship: The brand focuses on high standards of craftsmanship and refined details, and its ownership experience often includes concierge-style services and dedicated support.
