Comparing 2017 Lincoln MKZ to 2016 Acura TLX

Introduced for the 2015 model year, Acura TLX has done well for the brand, garnering a number of accolades and positive press reviews. Featuring a starting price of $32,615(1), TLX offers two engine choices, two transmission choices (8- and 9-speed automatics), and FWD and AWD configurations. There are no significant changes for 2016. See the advantages Lincoln MKZ offers. 

 

Competitive Perception

Acura TLX delivers nimble performance - no matter the configuration - and offers a choice of two drivetrains: the 2.4L DOHC I-4 and the 3.5L SOHC V6. 

Lincoln Reality

Lincoln MKZ offers a new standard single-turbocharged, twin-scroll 2.0L GTDI I-4 and the newly introduced, available twin-turbo 3.0L GTDI V6(2) for optimal choice. Both are significantly more powerful than their Acura counterparts. 

MKZ also offers a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine for those who are more focused on fuel economy. 

All-wheel drive is available on all Lincoln MKZ trim levels with either gas engine. On TLX, all-wheel drive is available only with the V6 engine. 

 

Competitive Perception

Acura TLX offers a higher value for first-time luxury buyers. 

Lincoln Reality

Take a closer look and you'll find that Lincoln MKZ delivers some important advantages that are not available at any cost on TLX, including: 

  • Standard 18-inch aluminum wheels on base models 
  • Available 19-inch aluminum wheels 
  • Available heated outboard rear seats 
  • Available inflatable rear safety belts 
  • Available panoramic retractable Vista Roof® 

Competitive Perception

TLX promises to deliver on its "Synergy Between Man and Machine" product direction, characterized as, "at the will of the driver with intuitive, exhilarating and confidence-inspiring driving dynamics." 

Standard: 

  • 2.4L I-4 engine: 
    • 206 horsepower 
    • 24 city/35 hwy mpg(3) 
    • Premium 91-octane fuel 
  • 17-inch wheels 
  • Precision All-wheel Steer (P-AWS) 
  • Integrated Dynamics System: 
    • Driver-selectable ECON, Sport, Sport + or Normal modes 

 

Lincoln Reality

Lincoln MKZ more than measures up when it comes to spirited driving experiences, plus features not available on Acura TLX. 

Standard: 

  • Updated 2.0L GTDI I-4: 
    • 245 horsepower (using 93-octane fuel) 
    • 275 lb.-ft. of torque (using 93-octane fuel)
    • 21 city/31 hwy mpg(3)
  • 18-inch aluminum wheels 
  • Lincoln Drive Control: 
    • Active noise control 
    • Continuously controlled damping (CCD) 
    • Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) 
    • Driver-selectable Sport, Comfort, Normal modes 

(1) Includes $920 destination charge. 

(2) Late availability. 
(3) EPA-estimated fuel economy rating. Actual mileage will vary. 


 

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