2017 Lincoln MKZ Debuts With New Nose, 400 HP: 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show

LOS ANGELES – Lincoln shocked the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show with the announcement that its nearly restyled 2017 Lincoln MKZ is powered by an all-new 3.0-liter V6 that makes 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

The 2017 Lincoln MKZ goes on sale in the summer of 2016.

Though the 2017 MKZ will be available in front-wheel drive, only the all-wheel-drive model will offer the 400-hp engine option. A 350-hp version of the same engine will be used in front-wheel-drive models.

For those looking for something more economical, the 2017 MKZ will also be available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 245 hp or with a hybrid drivetrain. Fuel economy numbers have not been announced.

Though we’re most impressed with the new powertrain, the MKZ also gets a dramatic new front-end design. It looks a little Audi (headlights) a little Jaguar (grille) and a little fussy with all of the lines on the hood. It’s handsome, certainly, though it projects a familiarity we don’t associate immediately with Lincoln.

The inside has been significantly improved as well, with higher-quality button/switch feel, multicontour seats and real aluminum trim and pedal covers. Lincoln further ups the luxury ante with two Black Label themes: Chalet and Vineyard. These join current theme “Thoroughbred” in offering unique colors, materials and owner privileges like delivery and premium maintenance. Lincoln’s massive “Open Air” sliding roof is still available.

Pricing hasn’t been announced, but we expect the all-wheel-drive, 400-hp variant will approach $60,000.

Edmunds says: Four-hundred horsepower, a turbocharged V6 and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive could make the 2017 Lincoln MKZ a very compelling sport sedan.