2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Gets EPA Certification

American carmaker Ford announced today that its Lincoln division has strong reasons for celebration, as the company’s first hybrid had just received an EPA-certified 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. This reportedly makes the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in the US.

“The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid provides a real choice in the marketplace for customers looking for a vehicle that not only makes a statement about who they are but also reflects their ideals,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president, Global Product Development. “It offers the best fuel economy in its segment, a host of advanced safety features, and all the amenities and modern design of a true luxury sedan.”

The car is fitted with a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine, delivering a combined 191 horsepower.

Lincoln compared the car with its nearest competitor, the 2010 Lexus HS 250h and discovered that while it reaches just 25 mph in battery-only mode, the MKZ Hybrid extends to 47 mph. Moreover, the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid's projected fuel economy tops the Lexus HS 250h by 6 mpg.

“The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid offers everything our customers look for in a midsize luxury sedan, plus unsurpassed fuel economy,” said Kuzak. “Our engineers worked to ensure the hybrid electric motor and engine complement each other in a fashion that reflects the truly refined driving experience that is synonymous with the Lincoln name.” 

The car will be joining the other hybrid models in Ford’s lineup, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid, the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Milan and Mariner Hybrids.