Saturday, March 15, 2014

Lincoln MKZ: A Design Dilemma

Thanks to some Friday afternoon traffic I ended up following a brand new Lincoln MKZ for quite some time giving a perfect opportunity to study its design. When the Lincoln MKZ first debuted I was intrigued by its unique design, especially at the back. A couple of years later the MKZ is still one of the most unique designs for under 40k. Considering that the MKZ hasn't had a serious sales breakout perhaps unique really means polarizing instead. The sharp edges and strong surfacing around the rear fender and trunk area are still amazing design elements. A thin single tail light spans the entire width and hidden tail pipes round out a rear view that has a lot going on. The thick C pillar as well gives the MKZ a strong if slightly heavy look. Up front the design is simpler with a restrained Lincoln grille that does little to hint at the design at the back. Overall, the MKZ is an incredibly interesting design that each time I see I struggle to make up my mind if it's a winner or a loser. The rear end design is so strong but there isn't much design flow from the front to the back. It's a car that I would like to see more often on the road but not necessarily a car that I would want to drive on my own and it appears that I am not the only one with such an impression.


One of the most unique looks

The side profile is the weakest view

The simpler front end clashes with the rear

2 comments:

  1. Is it really so interesting? It seems sadly derivative of German designs to me, like most medium to large American cars. The only US marque that has an original design is Cadillac.

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  2. At the back it's as unique as designs get in its class. Reminds me more of Cadillac's Art & Science philosophy than current Caddilacs. But the front and overall it's not as well put together like say the CTS.

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