2014 Lincoln MKZ

The 2014 MKZ is Lincoln's mid-size sedan, the one that shares its bones with the Ford Fusion but dresses it up with a much more distinctive look. It's tuned for a smooth, quiet ride rather than sporty responses, which suits its luxury mission, though it's not the most agile thing in its class. Inside, the cabin looks sharp with a sweeping dash, but some owners note the materials feel a bit plasticky and rear headroom is tight for taller passengers. A few owners have reported issues like a popping door handle cover, a lumbar support that stops adjusting, and water leaking into the trunk. If you want the stronger engine and the all-weather grip of all-wheel drive, the MKZ with the 3.7L V6 is the pick over the base four-cylinder. The 3.7L V6 makes 300 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, which gives it real punch when you need to merge, and the EPA rates it at 25 mpg combined.