24 MPG combined isn’t going to break any records, but for the 2017 Lincoln MKZ FWD 2.0L 4-cyl, it’s a reasonable balance of luxury, performance, and efficiency. This isn’t a hybrid or a sporty sedan. It’s a comfortable car made for drivers who want a smooth ride and nice interior more than saving gas. These drivers often like American luxury and want a quiet, dependable car for commuting and weekend trips. They accept the fuel economy as part of what the car offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the fuel economy at 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows how urban driving with its stop and go affects fuel economy, as the 2.0L turbocharged engine works harder and idles more. 21 MPG in city driving shows how sensitive the engine is to how you use the accelerator. Accelerating quickly will definitely reduce fuel economy. However, the MKZ does better on the open road. The 31 MPG highway rating shows that the efficient 6-speed automatic transmission and aerodynamic design let the car cruise at lower RPMs, saving gas on long trips. Drivers who often drive on the highway can expect to see numbers closer to 31 MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lincoln MKZ FWD 2.0L 4-cyl is $1,800. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The actual fuel cost will change depending on how you drive, local fuel prices, and what type of fuel you use. If you drive harder, idle in traffic a lot, or live somewhere with high gas prices, you’ll likely pay more than the EPA estimate. Some drivers might find this annual cost acceptable. It’s an important thing to think about when comparing the MKZ to cars that get better gas mileage. Consider MKZ MPG across all years to understand long-term costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates offer a standard. However, real-world fuel economy can be different. Many drivers say that getting the advertised 31 MPG on the highway is possible if you drive carefully and keep a steady speed. The 21 MPG city figure can be hard to reach, especially in busy cities. Things like traffic, weather, and how you drive can change how much fuel you use. Drivers who want to save gas should accelerate and brake smoothly and slowly, and idle as little as possible to get closer to the EPA’s numbers. Keeping the car maintained by checking tire pressure and changing the fluids is also essential.

How it compares

Compared to other cars, the 2017 Lincoln MKZ FWD 2.0L 4-cyl is in the middle for fuel economy. The Acura TLX 2.4L with front-wheel drive gets a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Lexus ES 350, which has a smoother, naturally aspirated V6 engine, gets about 24 MPG combined, but it needs premium fuel, which can change costs. The Buick LaCrosse with its available 3.6L V6 uses a bit more gas for more power, getting around 25 MPG combined. The difference of 1-2 MPG might not matter to some, but others might be willing to give up some luxury or performance to save on gas. Buyers should check all Lincoln fuel economy data to get a feel for the brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.0L turbocharged engine in the MKZ works well with smooth and easy use of the accelerator. Don’t accelerate fast or brake hard, as this uses more fuel. Seeing how traffic flows and keeping a steady speed will improve your MPG, especially in the city. Think about your driving to really save on gas.

Tire pressure is important for fuel efficiency. Check your tires often and make sure they have the right amount of air, which you can find on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Tires with low air create more resistance, which makes the engine work harder and use more fuel. This is a quick way to improve your MPG.

Extra weight in the car also changes fuel economy. Take out anything you don’t need from the trunk and inside the car to lower the amount of weight on the engine. Every extra pound increases fuel use, especially when accelerating. Think about how much you keep in the car, it adds up.

Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, it’s usually better to turn off the engine. Starting the engine uses less fuel than idling for a long time. This can save a good amount of fuel over time.