2021 Lincoln MKZ Will Arrive as the Zephyr RWD Model

Lincoln already introduced the Corsair model, a replacement for the MKC model. Now, the 2021 Lincoln MKZ could also get replaced. According to the latest reports, 2021 Zephyr will replace the famous sedan. Among the highlights of the new model will be the CD6 platform that comes with the rear-wheel-drive setup.

The hybrid drivetrain is the most likely outcome for the MKZ model. On top of that, new MKZ (or Zephyr) will be available in coupe body style. For the start, Zephyr will most likely arrive as a concept in the coming months. That means the 2020 MKZ will be in the offer. But 2021 will be the year of the MKZ’s end.

Exterior Redesign

Lincoln said the entire lineup of vehicles will eventually switch from alphanumerical to actual names. MKC model is already replaced by the Corsair model. Now, the 2021 Lincoln MKZ will actually arrive as Lincoln Zephyr. It will be interesting to see the new exterior design. Lincoln could depart from its own design language and deliver something new.

Of course, most of the styling cues will be similar to the current MKZ model. The design will look very premium and subtle. We don’t expect a too aggressive or sporty approach. Of course, Lincoln will offer numerous exterior colors and a couple of trim levels. The 2021 MKZ will ride on the CD6 platform. This architecture comes with a standard rear-wheel-drive system.

Why Zephyr?

MKZ won’t be the first model that will get a new name. Lincoln Nautilus started under the name MKX. Continental is another model that replaced the “MK” series. Lincoln will ditch all of the MK-type of vehicles. Instead, the new model will arrive under the real name. That means the alphanumerical names will be gone, totally.

Zephyr is the latest model that will replace the MKZ sedan. Zephyr is the old-school company’s vehicle, so the name is not that new. Something similar Lincoln did with the Ford’s Corsair model. Zephyr is actually a slow wind. It does make more sense and the new name will create less confusion among the customers.

Hybrid Drivetrain and CVT Transmission

The all-new 2021 Lincoln MKZ will ride on the CD6 platform. The same architecture underpins models such as the upcoming Mustang, Explorer and Aviator models. Also, CD6 platform comes with a hybrid drivetrain. Interestingly, Explorer ST rides on the same underpinnings. This model rides on a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6. New MKZ won’t deliver that much power as the Explorer ST. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is the most likely candidate. This unit comes with the turbocharger and the CVT transmission.

According to the newest reports, new MKZ will get almost 400 horses. A CVT transmission will come as standard. Of course, we already mentioned a standard rear-wheel-drive setup. As for the hybrid model, the same four-cylinder engine will be mated with the electric motor. While new MKZ Hybrid will deliver slightly below 200 hp, mileage will be astonishing. Fuel economy rating could jump from 21 mpg to 41 mpg in the city.

2021 Lincoln MKZ Price and Release Date

The 2021 Lincoln MKZ will get serious changes. It will arrive under the name Zephyr. Also, this sedan will most likely arrive as a coupe.

The hybrid drivetrain will be available and MKZ will switch to rear-wheel-drive configuration. Surely, the price will be increased. The new model will cost around $40,000 and it will arrive later in 2020.