The Lincoln MKZ line spans a decade of changes, with Lincoln offering gasoline V6s, turbocharged four-cylinders, and a hybrid powertrain across different model years. The exact engine depends on the year and trim.
The MKZ has used several engines across its production: early models relied on a 3.5-liter V6; later models added a turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-4 and a 3.7-liter V6; there is also a hybrid version that pairs a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor.
Engine options by generation
First generation (2010–2012)
During the first generation, Lincoln offered a straightforward gasoline powertrain lineup focused on a single engine option with performance tuning in that period.
Engine options for this generation:
- 3.5-liter Duratec V6 — gasoline, about 263 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic.
Conclusion: The first MKZ relied on a single gasoline engine option with no hybrid variant.
Second generation (2013–2020)
The 2013 redesign expanded choices to a turbocharged four-cylinder and a larger V6, with a hybrid variant introduced later in the run.
Engine options for this generation:
- 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 — turbocharged gasoline engine, around 240 horsepower.
- 3.7-liter Duratec V6 — naturally aspirated gasoline engine, around 300 horsepower.
Conclusion: The second generation broadened the lineup to include both a turbo four and a larger V6, broadening performance and efficiency options.
Hybrid variant
In addition to the gasoline-only options, Lincoln offered a dedicated hybrid powertrain for the MKZ that blends efficiency with usable power.
Hybrid powertrain:
- 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 paired with electric motor, combined output roughly 190 horsepower.
Conclusion: The MKZ Hybrid focuses on fuel economy and smooth power delivery, rather than peak horsepower.
Summary
Across its production years, the Lincoln MKZ offered several engine configurations: a 3.5L V6 in the early years, a 2.0L EcoBoost turbo four and a 3.7L V6 in later years, and a hybrid variant with a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle engine and electric motor. The exact engine depends on model year and trim, so checking the specific vehicle details is the best way to know for a given MKZ.