The Lincoln MKZ and Cadillac CTS are direct competitors in the mid-size luxury sedan product segment. The two sporty sedans are surprisingly similar in pricing, features and performance. The Lincoln focuses on refinement, while the Cadillac has a more sporty appearance and performance.
Styling and Features
The Lincoln MKZ and Cadillac CTS are 5-passenger mid-size sedans with all the luxury trimmings, like full leather interior, powerful V6 engines and the latest in electronic wizardry. Ford's SYNC infotainment system is featured on the Lincoln for hands-free media control. The CTS gets a Bose audio system and full touch-screen navigation standard. Both cars are nearly identical in size, with the CTS just slightly larger in every dimension.
Performance
The CTS is the clear winner in the performance department. While powerful, the Lincoln just can't hold a candle to Cadillac's award-winning sedan. Car and Driver calls the MKZ's performance "milquetoast," going on to say "we doubt the Lincoln would be able to keep up with the CTS or (Acura) TL." The MKZ does offer optional all-wheel drive (AWD), which is standard on the CTS.
Price
The 2011 MKZ starts at $34,330, while the manufacturer suggested retail price of the Cadillac is $35,990. It is clear Lincoln set its sights on the CTS when designing and pricing the MKZ. The AWD MKZ will set you back a couple thousand more, starting at $36,220.
Special Models
A hybrid MKZ has appeared on the market for 2011. It uses the same power train found in the successful Ford Fusion Hybrid and is priced identically to the standard V6 MKZ. The CTS gets a special model of its own in the form of the super high-performance CTS-V, a direct competitor to the BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz AMG cars.
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