2006 Lincoln Zephyr

Lincoln is Ford’s luxury brand, and most Lincoln models are fancier, quieter versions of existing Ford SUVs. The Lincoln Navigator, for example, is based on the Ford Expedition, and the Lincoln Corsair is based on the Ford Escape. Some models are available as hybrids. Lincoln SUVs tend to come with standard leather seating surfaces, large screens, and sound deadening. That interior quality paired with lively powertrains have earned some models Consumer Reports’ recommendation. Lincoln stopped building sedans when it discontinued the Continental and MKZ in 2020. As a brand, for new and used car reliability, road-test scores, and owner satisfaction ratings, Lincoln tends to be average.

The front-drive Zephyr sedan arrived for 2006, with secure, though not sporty handling. Ride quality is firm, supple, and controlled; but the turning circle is wide. The mid-sized Lincoln's interior is trimmed in leather and wood, with styling reminiscent of that of past Lincolns. For 2007, an all-wheel-drive version was introduced and the car was renamed MKZ. Stability control was added for 2009. A 2010 freshening saw improvements to the turning circle, better interior materials, and a quieter cabin. The ride is also more supple and controlled. Handling is remarkably responsive. A hybrid arrived in 2011, priced identically to the standard model.