A lot has happened to the "baby" Lincoln in its short life. Launched as the Zephyr in 2006, it now acquires a new alpha-numeric name to bring it in line with Lincoln's new naming system (and by the way, it's pronounced "Em Kay Zed" not "Mark Zed"). There's also a new 263-hp, 3.5-litre V6 to replace last year's willing but unrefined 221-hp, 3.0-litre V6. And it's hooked up to Ford's new 6-speed automatic transmission. It's a terrific team -- the tranny always seems to be in the right gear, and the 3.5 never seems to be wanting of smooth get-me-out-of-here torque.

Like its Ford Fusion platform mate, the MKZ has likeable road manners -- not overly athletic, but it turns easily with little understeer, all the while delivering a quiet, comfortable ride.

The cabin features the same restrained grace of the exterior. Aside from standard leather seating and steering-wheel audio, cruise, and climate controls, there are options like a 600-watt audio system, Xenon headlights, heated and cooled seats, and a DVD navigation system. Front and side airbags are standard.

All-wheel drive is a new option for 2007 (the Zephyr was front-wheel drive only).

To finish it all off, the front end (grille and fascia) has been restyled and there's a new 17-inch wheel design. Roomy, sporty and luxurious, the MKZ is quite a deal at a starting price of $37,899.

Luxurious, quiet, roomy and sporty

Front-wheel drive architecture bucks the trend