2022 Lincoln Zephyr Replacing MKZ Sedan and it Comes With Hybrid Powertrain?

As you know, Lincoln is switching from alphanumeric nameplates to actual names, like decades ago. Thanks to that, the 2022 Lincoln Zephyr is coming to the markets as a replacement for the MKZ sedan. It’s not a real replacement, as the MKZ sedan will continue its journey, only under a different name. Of course, a new name is just one of the changes that will happen in the future.

The Zephyr model will also host a lot of visual upgrades and it will offer a standard rear-wheel-drive setup. The interior will gain more technology updates, so we expect a lot better model than the previous one. At this point, we can read a lot of rumors. Anyway, we’ll try to deliver the most reliable information only.

2022 Zephyr Sedan Switches to RWD Platform

This is the most likely outcome for the new 2022 Lincoln Zephyr sedan. This model will gain a new platform, which is great to hear. Reportedly, it is the same architecture that underpins the new Lincoln Aviator SUV. It is a unibody construction based on the rear-wheel-drive system. Moreover, the same platform will most likely underpin the next-gen Ford Mustang.

Ford already said the production of the Transit Connect van is moved to Mexico, the same plant that builds Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion models. Clearly, the manufacturer has bigger plans for the Zephyr sedan, and the next-gen model will be very exciting and impressive.

Coupe Rumors

As we already wrote, you can read a lot of speculations about the new 2022 Lincoln Zephyr. One of the most interesting rumors is about the Zephyr nameplate as the brand-new coupe. If this truly happens, then Zephyr is definitely a direct replacement for the MKZ variant. The rumors are suggesting Lincoln’s coupe, based on the Ford Mustang.

A two-door version seems far-fetched in our opinion. Anyway, the same reports are saying the MKZ will continue with the production, but under a different name. Some of the possible new names are Capri, Custom, and even Town Car. Still, these stories are not coming from reliable sources.

Is Hybrid a Possibility?

This is another mystery. The 2022 Lincoln Zephyr won’t get a newly developed engine, that’s for sure. Developing a new powertrain is quite expensive, so the carmaker will opt for one of the existing outputs. A 2.0-liter turbo-four engine seems like a very likely candidate. This engine is capable of producing slightly above 250 horsepower.

On top of that, we won’t be surprised if Lincoln delivers an optional twin-turbo engine with more power. Borrowing engines from the Aviator SUV is another option. The biggest question is if the hybrid version will reach production. A lot of reports are saying yes and the new platform definitely suggests some sort of electrification. Still, Lincoln is yet to announce more details.

2022 Lincoln Zephyr Price, Release Date

The upcoming 2022 Lincoln Zephyr will cost around $40,000. Of course, it will arrive with the same price as the MKZ model. A hybrid version will surely cost a little bit more and the sales will begin by the end of 2021. New Zephyr sedan will be made in Ford’s plant in Mexico.