Comparing 2017 Lincoln MKZ to 2016 Infiniti Q50

The Q50, Infiniti's top-selling model in North America, adds new models and new powertrains for the 2016 model year. Praised for its striking exterior styling and powerful engines, it has attracted new buyers, as evidenced by significant sales increases. It's a worthy adversary for Lincoln MKZ. 

 

Competitive Perception

Q50, with a choice of four engines, further reinforces that position. 

  • 2.0L turbo I-4: 
    • 208 horsepower                      
    • 258 lb.-ft. of torque 
  • 3.0L twin-turbo V6: 
    • 300 horsepower                      
    • 295 lb.-ft. of torque 
  • 3.0L twin-turbo V6: 
    • 400 horsepower                      
    • 350 lb.-ft. of torque 
  • 3.5L V6 hybrid: 
    • 360 net horsepower                 
    • 258 lb.-ft. of torque 
    • 29 city/36 hwy mpg(1)(FWD)     
    • 27 city/31 hwy mpg(1) (AWD) 

Lincoln Reality

Lincoln clients interested in performance have the option of three distinct powertrain choices:

  • 2.0L GTDI I-4: 
    • 245 horsepower(2) 
    • 275 lb.-ft. of torque(2)
  • 3.0L twin-turbo GTDI V6:(3) 
    • 350 horsepower(2) (FWD) 
    • 400 horsepower(2) (AWD) 
    • 400 lb.-ft. of torque(2)(FWD/AWD) 
  • 2.0L Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid: 
    • 188 net total combined horsepower 
    • 129 lb.-ft. of torque 
    • 41 city/38 hwy mpg(1)

 

Competitive Perception

Q50 delivers dynamic driving performance from innovative technologies that include Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) and Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS). 

Lincoln Reality

Lincoln MKZ features CCD and EPAS that, like the Infiniti's DAS, enable drivers to customize the amount of steering input and feel based on preference. Unlike DAS, EPAS has not been derided by the media for its lack of feel. Most reviewers prefer the non-digital steering system found in Q50 models equipped with the 2.0L engine. 

Competitive Perception

For a truly luxurious driving experience, the 2016 Infiniti Q50 offers a Premium Plus Package. Among the included features in this optional package are: 

  • Auto-dimming exterior mirrors 
  • Electric exterior mirrors with memory 
  • Electrically adjustable steering wheel with memory 
  • Infiniti InTouch with navigation and one year of InTouch Services 
  • SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link® 
  • Electric lumbar support and position memory for the driver's seat 
  • Heated steering wheel         
  • Heated front seats 

 

Lincoln Reality

You shouldn't have to pay extra for a luxurious driving experience, and Lincoln MKZ offers many of the features found in Infiniti's available Premium Plus Package as standard equipment, including:

  • Auto-dimming driver's sideview mirror 
  • Electric exterior mirrors with memory and heat function 
  • Navigation with SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link 6-year prepaid subscription (in 48 contiguous states) 
  • 10-way power driver and front-passenger seats with 2-way power lumbar
  • Memory driver's seat 
  • Heated front seats 

( 1 ) EPA-estimated fuel economy rating. Actual mileage will vary.

(2) Late availability.

(3) Tested with 93-octane fuel. 


 

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