The MKZ will be Lincoln's first hybrid

The MKZ will be Lincoln's first hybrid

 

 

Lincoln is giving MKZ customers what they want: a hybrid.

Sales of the 2011 MKZ, Lincoln's first hybrid, begin this fall. The car is scheduled to debut today at the New York auto show.

Research shows "about 40 percent of MKZ customers would seriously consider a hybrid," says Jonathan Richards, MKZ/hybrid marketing manager.

And about 50 percent of shoppers looking for cars comparable to the MKZ in size and price are interested in a hybrid, he said in a phone interview.

"So we think this is an opportunity for conquest for Lincoln, and most importantly, to broaden the appeal of Lincoln beyond its current owner base," said Richards.

Prices will be announced later in the year.

Last year Lincoln sold 22,081 MKZs in the United States, down 27 percent from the previous year. Sales for January-February this year totaled 3,101, off 15 percent.

The 2011 MKZ hybrid uses Ford's second-generation hybrid technology teamed with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The car can run in pure electric mode up to 47 mph. The technology also is used by the 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids.

While the Ford and Mercury vehicles get 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the city rating for the 2011 MKZ may be higher.

"We can be hopeful, but until we have the official EPA certification, we will say at least 41," he said.

Standard equipment includes a 10-way power passenger seat, memory seat settings, heated and cooled front seats, wood trim and a reverse sensing system, a warning system that alerts the driver if an object is near when the car is rolling in reverse.

Richards said there is an added benefit to having a hybrid in the showroom.

"Our experience with hybrids is that they provide a draw and a halo for the showroom and the brand," he said. "It drives showroom traffic. It drives potential sales of the other vehicles."

 

Source: [ Automotive News ]