MotorMouths

With excellent fuel economy, a comfortable interior, and really excellent cabin tech, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid makes for a near perfect commuter car and general transportation.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a good edition to a nameplate badly in need of some crowd pleasing products. It does everything a standard MKZ does, but on a lot less gas.

Even if the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid had more rivals, I still think it would fare pretty well. It hits all the high notes — well-finished cabin, responsive handling, quiet and refined ride, and fantastic fuel economy — and has few faults.

The the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is yet another reason to avoid the Lexus HS 250h, it’s closest competitor. With a lower price; combined mileage that’s 4 mpg higher; the ability to operate in EV mode up to 47 mph; plus attractive design and some genuine classiness.

At about $41,000 fully loaded, the Lincoln MKZ hybrid tells a value story that is almost as impressive as its economy story.

Wouldn’t it be even more inspiring if the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid awarded you with images of Cuban cigars or Tiffany diamonds? That would turn some executive heads, or even interest a few limo drivers, we think.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid has no problem besting its closest competitor, the Lexus HS250h, in every way. With more room and power, a quieter cabin, a comparable MSRP and significantly better fuel economy, it’s simply a better vehicle.

When it comes down to it, as far as luxury brand hybrids go, the 2011 MKZ is an efficient and, therefore, a smart choice. But without the futuristic style of Toyota’s hybrid offerings, it might be considered as the Boomer’s green vehicle choice.

If you want some good, clean fuel efficiency and some style, too, then the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is your perfect match.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is not cheap, but you’re getting an efficient, capable car, and the most fuel efficient luxury car that you can buy.

A mechanically similar Fusion hybrid is about $6,400 less, but it lacks the panache, the chemistry, the ambiance that make the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid appealing. Whether it’s six grand worth of panache is for you to decide.

Licoln’s MKZ is a hybrid that’s both affordable and a segment leader in terms of fuel economy. To that end, it has succeeded, but the sedan’s cabin needs more work if the brand intends to contend with the titans of the market.