2020 Lincoln MKZ Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

The Lincoln MKZ has been around since 2006 and is only in its second generation. Having undergone a revamp in 2017, there are quite a few high-tech gadgets to be found inside of the MKZ's cabin. All trim levels are well-equipped, which is something that not all luxury sedans can claim. It also has some speedy acceleration on the optional turbo V6.

There are three trim levels to choose from, so you will be facing some tough decisions when it comes to which model you want to choose. The base MKZ has a lot to offer, but the Reserve I and II both boost the luxury up a few notches. Knowing which trim level has which specs and features can help make the buying decision a little bit easier. The list of standard features on each trim level will be fairly long, but there are clearly differences between each of the trim levels. When you consider the differences between the standard 4-cylinder engine and the optional V6 twin-turbo that comes on the Reserve II, you will have to make a difficult choice. Will you go with one of the more affordable trims but not get a lot of power, or will you spend more to get more power from the V6?

That being said, this comparison review will pit trim level against trim level. By the end of this review, you should have a clearer idea of which 2020 Lincoln MKZ trim level - if any - is going to do the best job at meeting your unique needs.

Compare the 2020 Lincoln MKZ vs Reserve I Trims. What is the difference?

One of the first things you have to bear in mind is that the 2020 Lincoln MKZ's three trim levels all have hybrid variants. They also do not come at any extra cost, which is extremely alluring for those who want a mix of luxury and fuel efficiency. Each hybrid model is powered by a 2.0-L 4-cylinder engine and electric motor, which net the vehicle 188 hp. A CVT also comes standard. Only front-wheel drive is available; you cannot get all-wheel drive on any hybrid trim.

To give you a better idea of what the base MKZ has going on under the hood, there is an AdvanceTrac electronic stability control system, autohold, an adaptive suspension, and electric power-assisted steering. Together, these features work to make the MKZ's handling feel both spunky and secure. Additionally, the vehicle rides atop 18-inch machined 5-spoke wheels set in aluminum with painted pockets.

But what about the inside of the vehicle? That is generally what lures people into buying luxury vehicles. The base MKZ has quite a lot in the way of creature comforts. The cabin is heated and cooled by a dual-zone automatic climate control system, evenly distributing air throughout the front and rear seats.

Other interior features include a reverse sensing system, a steering wheel wrapped in leather and mounted with multiple cruise and audio system controls, floor mats for the front and rear of the cabin, dome lamps for the front and rear seats, and a rear window defroster. There is a 10.1-inch LCD gauge cluster, blind spot monitoring with cross traffic alert, and automatically dimming rear view mirror, four 12-volt power outlets, and a manual tilt-and-telescoping steering column.

You also get illuminated vanity mirrors on the front sun visors, a remote trunk release lid, a universal garage door opener, power door locks, and an astounding ten cup holders. Adding to the sense of luxury are active noise control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, the lane keep assist feature, and Lincoln Connect, which gives you WiFi hot spot connectivity.

That being said, the infotainment system is worth talking about. The MKZ has the SYNC 3 system, which is easy for most drivers to use. There is also the Lincoln Premium Audio System that pumps concert-like sound quality from its 11 speakers. SiriusXM Satellite Radio connectivity is standard, as is a media bin with an SD card slot, an audio input jack, and two USB ports.

As for the seats, they are as soft and cozy as you can imagine. The MKZ has soft touch luxury seats with 10-way power-adjustable front seats with two-way power-adjustable lumbar support. The rear seat is split-folding with pass-through capability. Also, the driver's seat has memory settings that you can configure.

Of course, the exterior of the MKZ is pretty appealing to the eye. It boasts features like adaptive HID headlights with signature LED lights, LED taillights, and two integrated exhausted tips. Add to that Lincoln's lighted welcoming system, the Lincoln Embrace, and you get quite a luxurious experience. Also there are chrome inserts on the body-colored door handles and a lovely satin aluminum grille planted onto the front fascia.

Safety features surely warrant discussion as well. You get standard features like the belt-minder alert, emergency trunk release, an SOS post-crash alert system, an easy-to-access LATCH system for child safety seats, the personal safety system, and traction control. Of course, a rear view camera comes equipped, which is par for the course with base trims on most newer vehicles. The anti-theft perimeter system, MyKey feature, and remote keyless entry system helps keep your vehicle safe.

You can add the Lincoln Co-pilot 360 package for an extra cost. Also, you can opt to add stand-alone features like a front license plate holder, aluminum trim, and nine different exterior body color options that all come in metallic sheen.

You're probably wondering what the Reserve I could possibly have that the base MKZ does not. Well, let's go over the Reserve I's upgrades. First of all, there is an option to upgrade to 19-inch satin finished 10-spoke aluminum wheels that come with painted pockets.

There are a number of interior upgrades, starting with genuine wood on the doors, instrument panel, and steering wheel. The number of 12-volt power outlets gets taken down to three, but the vehicle gains power and memory on the tilt and telescoping steering column. Also, there is a power trunk lid, a 110-volt power outlet, two rear seat USB charging ports, auto-folding side view mirrors, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functioning. Optional features include aluminum pedal covers and a heated steering wheel.

The SYNC 3 gains navigation that is operated by voice control, SiriusXM Travel Link, and SiriusXM Traffic. The sound system gets upgraded to a 14-speaker Revel Audio System with HD Radio and a single CD player.

The Reserve I's front seats gain four-way power lumbar support, gorgeous leather trim, and the option of adding heating to the rear seats. The exterior has a few upgrades as well, including powered and heated pedestal mirrors with security approach lamps and integrated turn indicators. You can also upgrade to a unique and stylish light magnetic painted grille.

Most of the safety features are the same on the Reserve I. However, you can opt to add on inflatable safety belts on the outboard rear seats. There are also optional add-ons like the MKZ Reserve Plus package and a power moon roof.

Compare the 2020 Lincoln MKZ Reserve I vs Reserve II Trims.  What is the difference?

The 2020 Lincoln MKZ Reserve I is a vehicle packed with features, although it could certainly have more. And that is where the line-topping Reserve II trim level comes into play. It adds options for more power and handling control. There are options for equipping a sport-tuned suspension and dynamic torque vectoring. There is also a twin-turbo 3.0-L V6 engine option that gets thrown into the mix and is a much stronger option than the standard 2.0-L 4-cylinder. The Reserve II also gets 19-inch 7-spoke wheels set with painted sockets.

The interior has some noteworthy upgrades as well, even though it retains most of the Reserve I's favored features, such as ambient interior lighting and the power tilt and telescoping steering column. New features on the Reserve II trim level include a standard heated steering wheel (which is only an optional feature on the Reserve I), enhanced active parking assist with sensors on the front of the vehicle, and a forward sensing system.

The infotainment features are essentially the same as the Reserve I, but you can opt for the massive, 20-speaker Revel Ultima Audio System. The seats get upgraded to perforated leather trim, which gives the cabin an enhanced sense of luxury. The front seats are given multi-contouring with Active Motion functionality. Also, the rear seats gain standard heating.

The Reserve II gains a few more features on the outside too. An option opens up for adding adaptive LED headlights with signature LED lighting. However, you cannot get the unique optional grille that the Reserve I has as an option. A lovely Rhapsody Blue trim color option becomes available though. The MKZ Luxury package becomes available, and the power moon roof becomes standard. You also get the option of adding a retractable panoramic glass roof. The floor mats get upgraded to premium ones in the first and second row.

Which Trim to Choose?

While you can get away with going for middle-of-the-pack trim levels on some luxury vehicle line-ups, you might not want to go that route with the 2020 Lincoln MKZ. Unfortunately, the base powertrain that comes on the base and Reserve I trims is vastly under-powered for this segment, providing meager acceleration abilities. The optional V6 on the Reserve II gives the 2020 Lincoln MKZ a lot more power. Of course, it comes at a higher cost to the buyer.

If you want affordable luxury, the MKZ is not the vehicle for you. To get the most out of this vehicle, you will have to get the line-topping Reserve II and add the V6 to it. You might also want to add some of the luxury-based packages to make this really feel like a line-topper. The interior of the MKZ tends to feel a bit basic for being a luxury vehicle, so you will likely be tempted to add a bunch of those extra luxury features should you decide to go with the MKZ. The Reserve II has those bells and whistles, but it will cost you at least $9,000 more than the starting price of the base trim level.

Those who are not truly settled on the 2020 Lincoln MKZ will likely want to check out other vehicles first. However, if you get the chance to take the Reserve II for a spin with the V6 equipped, it can make for a thrilling experience. Just be prepared to spend quite a bit more money than you would for one of the MKZ's competitors in this segment. You might also want to consider the Reserve II's hybrid variant, as it will not come at an extra cost to you and improves your fuel economy.