he Detroit News reports that Lincoln will debut a hybrid MKZ this week at the New York Auto Show. The MKZ will likely share the same powertrain as the Ford Fusion Hybrid; a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle mill mated to an eCVT transmission, along with an electric motor drawing power from a 275-volt nickel metal hydride battery pack. The MKZ hybrid will be the first battery-assisted model in the Lincoln lineup, giving Ford a luxury hybrid competitor to the Lexus HS 250h.

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/29/r...t-in-new-york/

 

Should be interesting. I am not expecting equal or better MPGs for the Lincoln vs. the 250h, as the MKZ is a bigger vehicle. Also the battery supply issue should be interesting . . . .

 

Does anyone know what body structure the 250h is based on? I was following one the other day and at first I was thinking it was similar in size to a Corolla. But then I passed it and noticed the small pie shabed windows in front of the door at the lower a-pillar, similar to the Prius.

 

250h is rated at 33-35 mpg I believe. Which is lower than Fusion hybrid (40 mpg).
I hope MKZ can get same numbers as Fusion hybrid.

 

From Wikipedia:

The HS 250h's platform is based on the third generation Toyota Avensis, itself related to the traditional gasoline engine Toyota Allion sold from 2001 to 2007.

 

The main bogey for the MKZ Hybrid is the Lexus HS250h, and Lincoln has come out with guns blazing, pushing the Lincoln's better fuel economy, and the fact that it has more standard luxury, technology and safety features than the Lexus.