2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

As entry-level luxury hybrids go, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (Base MSRP: $34,645)

 is tough to beat. Although it's based on the cheaper, mainstream 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid (Base MSRP: $28,600) -- the two have identical hybrid drivetrains -- the Lincoln's smooth ride and stellar fuel economy put it ahead of most other entry-level luxury offerings. The 2011 Lexus CT 200h (Base MSRP: $29,120 to $30,900) and 2011 Lexus HS250h ( Base MSRP: $35,600 to $38,370) are the only real direct hybrid competitors, but they offer the neither the passenger space nor performance of the Lincoln. The MKZ Hybrid has no cost premium over the regular V6-powered MKZ, which should be attractive to those who want a hybrid but don't want to fork over the extra cash for it. The primary downfall of the MKZ Hybrid is that the cheaper Ford Fusion Hybrid offers the same great fuel economy and a similar driving experience at a much lower base price.

Proven hybrid drivetrain is very efficient

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid employs the same powertrain as the Ford Fusion Hybrid, meaning that the front wheels are driven by a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine coupled to an electric motor powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Autoblog.com says there's enough power to keep the MKZ Hybrid from being "out of breath while jousting with beltway traffic or accelerating for a pass," and they also say that "buyers really don't have to sacrifice when it comes to opting for better fuel economy," because of the ample power and smoothness. It achieves better fuel economy: the EPA estimates that the MKZ Hybrid will get 41 mpg city/36 mpg highway/39 mpg combined, which is excellent for a car of this size. For comparison, the 2011 Lexus CT 200h does slightly better but is also smaller and less powerful.

The MKZ Hybrid's continuously variable transmission helps the hybrid powertrain achieve this efficiency, though some reviewers don't like its gearless action under full throttle, which can lead to a droning engine noise and somewhat slow response. Many buyers will find consolation in that the hybrid engine/CVT configuration allows the MKZ Hybrid to be powered by only electricity at speeds up to 47 mph under the right conditions (i.e. be very gentle with your right foot).

Smooth ride, but cabin materials disappoint

The MKZ Hybrid also delivers a high quality ride for driver and passenger. Edmunds.com says the MKZ Hybrid "offers a more engaging driving experience than most other hybrid sedans," citing its tighter suspension tuning and linear brake pedal action. A Los Angeles Times reviewer calls the ride quality "smooth," explaining that the "suspension struck a nice balance between a cloud-like disconnect from the road and sporty stiffness with too much feedback."

Reviewers find the interior comfortable, but the quality of the material not quite up to par when compared to other nonhybrid cars in this price range. While Edmunds.com calls the interior "pleasantly spacious for front and rear passengers," they say the interior quality is nearly the same as the much cheaper Ford Fusion Hybrid and that it's "certainly not up to Lexus standards." Similarly, Popular Mechanics finds that "the interior falls far short of what we've come to expect from Ford's designers." The MKZ Hybrid's standard features include Ford's excellent SYNC voice-operated infotainment system, leather upholstery and heated/ventilated front seats. Optional equipment includes a 14-speaker audio system and adaptive headlights.

The exterior styling doesn't offend any reviewers, but some critics do find it too staid.

The MKZ Hybrid has a smaller trunk than the traditional gas version, as is usually the case with hybrids because of their battery packs. Trunk cargo capacity is 11.8 cubic feet, which is fairly good when compared with other hybrid sedans, but not particularly impressive overall. Compact sedans like the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze offer roomier trunks

Impressive in government and independent safety tests

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid gets very good crash test results from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). The IIHS gives the MKZ Hybrid its Top Safety Pick designation, which means that it scored the highest rating of "Good" in frontal offset, rear, side and roof strength impact testing. The NHTSA gives the MKZ Hybrid a 4 star out of a possible 5 for overall safety, with side impact and rollover resistance tests receiving a 4 star out of 5 rating, and it received a 3 star out of 5 rating for frontal impact crashworthiness. Standard safety equipment includes stability control, traction control, antilock brakes, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and blind-spot detection.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid in a nutshell

About.com reviewer Aaron Gold summarizes what most critics say about the MKZ Hybrid, saying that "the MKZ hits all the high notes -- well-finished cabin, responsive handling, quiet and refined ride, and fantastic fuel economy -- and has few faults." Aside from undistinguished interior quality for a luxury car and the somewhat blas? exterior design, the hardest thing for shoppers to swallow will be that the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is fundamentally the same car, costing thousands of dollars less. When compared to other entry-level luxury-brand hybrid cars, critics say the Lincoln represents solid value for the money, and Autoblog.com says that "the MKZ Hybrid has no problem besting its closest competitor, the Lexus HS 250h, in every way."