The 2008 Lincoln MKZ four-door, mid-sized luxury sedan has room for five and is available as both a FWD and AWD model. The MSRPs range from $30,175 to $32,045.

The FWD has a 3.5-liter V6 engine under the hood generating 263 horsepower. (Expected fuel economy with the unit is 19 mpg around town and 27 on the road.) For the AWD Lincoln used a 3.5-liter V6 producing 263 horsepower. (Eighteen miles per gallon in town, 26 on the highway.) Both models are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.

For the coming model year Lincoln has added a host of standard features to a vehicle already known for sophistication, comfort, and convenience. Those features include Sirius Satellite Radio, premium leather upholstery, and heated and cooled driver and front passenger seats. Lincoln Sync, the exclusive Ford system of voice-activated communications and entertainment powered by Microsoft, heads the list of technological standard items. Sync employs both Bluetooth and USB connections to maximize the handsfree experience. Additionally, systems are in place to assist with rear parking and to monitor tire pressure.

The audio unit is an award-winning THX II system with a twelve-channel, 600-watt amplifier producing sound across an array of fourteen speakers and two subwoofers. The system can be programmed to play for three zones: driver, front seats and all seats and employs a six-disc CD changer as well as an AM/FM tuner. The Pioneer Navigation System uses touch-screen controls and includes voice-activation in the 2008 models.

The 2008 Lincoln MKZ is outfitted with an impressive range of safety features including an airbag array with units in the side position as well as curtains for the first and second rows. Air bag deployment is controlled by a system for occupant classification with weight gauges. Overall the MKZ is a high-performance, full-featured, and technologically advanced luxury sedan that sets a high standard for the competition.