2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Priced at $35,180, Same as Gas-Only Model

Lincoln has surprised luxury-seeking gas-electric nerds around the world by pricing the MKZ hybrid at $35,180—exactly the same price as the non-hybrid front-wheel-drive MKZ. Hybrid models typically command higher prices than their gasoline-only counterparts due to the cost of batteries and motors, making the MKZ deal a unique selling point for Lincoln. A call to Lincoln confirms that both versions of the MKZ have the same levels of standard and optional equipment. The price parity means hybrid buyers will start saving money (in the form of reduced fuel bills) immediately, without first having to recoup a premium paid for the hybrid model. The MKZ hybrid, which shares its powertrain with the Ford Fusion hybrid , uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine alongside a 106-hp electric motor, and is rated at 41 mpg city/36 highway. The conventional MKZ employs a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and returns 18 mpg city/27 highway in front-wheel-drive configuration or 17/24 mpg with all-wheel drive.

For comparison, the Ford Fusion hybrid starts at $28,825 and is slightly more expensive than a gasoline-only Fusion equipped with the same 3.5-liter V-6 as the MKZ uses, which starts at $27,380. Base Fusions employ a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, while a 3.0-liter V-6 is also available, both of which can be had for less than the hybrid. While we haven’t yet sampled the MKZ hybrid, we expect it to be just as impressive as its Fusion sibling. The Ford version won a spot on our 2010 10Best list and placed first in a comparison of hybridized family sedans . The 2011 MKZ hybrid goes on sale this fall. Related posts: 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid – Car News 2011 Saab 9-5 Aero Priced at $49,990, “Under $40K” Base Model to Debut Later 2010 Lincoln MKZ – Auto Shows

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2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Priced at $35,180, Same as Gas-Only Model