2011 Lincoln MKZ

A hybridized Lincoln MKZ or a Lincoln-ized Ford Fusion hybrid—either would be an accurate description of the 2011 Lincoln MKZ hybrid. Indeed, if you know anything about Ford’s excellent Fusion hybrid (a 2010 10Best winner), very little about its new-for-’11 entry-luxury twin will present any surprises. The MKZ hybrid drives its front wheels only and is powered by the same combination of a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder and an electric motor, with a total system output of 191 hp. Likewise, it features the same CVT and achieves the same impressive EPA fuel-economy ratings of 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

The Lincoln’s dash mimics the Fusion’s nifty customizable instrument cluster, with its cool virtual plant growing leaves as a reward for economical driving—although the Lincoln version additionally sprouts up to five flowers. Each flower is progressively harder to cultivate, and they remain in the display until the fuel-economy monitor is reset or the car crashes into a VW New Beetle, at which point they will be transferred to the Beetle’s dash-mounted vase. Besides its distinct Lincoln styling, the MKZ hybrid comes standard with an array of luxury features including genuine wood and leather trim and Lincoln’s version of Sync (not the new MyLincoln Touch system, however).