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2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid hits on tech, misses on luxury (pictures)

The new MKZ Hybrid wraps in a lot of tech tricks learned from Ford, and a superb THX audio system, but still feels like a mid-tier premium cruiser.

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Wayne Cunningham
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1 of 19 Wayne Cunningham/CNET

Lincoln's MKZ model is a mid-size sedan, and currently sits at the low end of its line-up. The car can be had with a hybrid drivetrain, pictured, or standard gasoline-fueled engine.

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Although not strictly brand-engineered, the MKZ Hybrid shares more than a few similarities to the Ford Fusion Hybrid.

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The MKZ Hybrid is a front-wheel-drive car with an adaptive suspension.

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The big, winged grille makes for a unique Lincoln styling cue.

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The hybrid drivetrain combines the power of an electric motor and 2-liter gasoline engine to achieve an EPA-rated 45 mpg average.

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These 19-inch aluminum wheels come with the Preferred trim.

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The trunk loses some cargo area to accommodate the 1.4 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack.

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Leather power-adjustable seats and a power-adjustable steering wheel are some of the premium elements of the MKZ Hybrid.

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The interior design looks good, but the suspension and drivetrain don't quite hold up the luxury end.

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Three passengers can fit in the rear bench.

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Lincoln fits the dashboard with some unique controls, including a push-button transmission and slide-style volume control.

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The instrument cluster shows displays on either side of the speedometer.

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The main touchscreen shows an animation depicting the real-time power-flow of the drivetrain.

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A THX audio system is the real high point in the MKZ Hybrid.

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The stereo includes typical sources, such as USB drive, iOS integration, and Bluetooth streaming.

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HD and satellite radio serve as broadcast audio sources.

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The navigation system offers traffic-based routing, but the maps fill in rather slowly.

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External data, such as fuel prices and weather, come in through satellite radio.

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The hands-free phone system includes contact list integration.

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