23 MPG combined is a compromise most 2018 Lincoln MKZ AWD 2.0L owners willingly accept. This isn’t a Prius, and it isn’t trying to be. This MKZ configuration caters to buyers who prioritize a comfortable, quiet ride, available all-weather traction, and a touch of luxury over outright fuel efficiency. They’re often willing to trade a few MPGs for the added confidence of all-wheel drive and the smooth power of a turbocharged engine.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway for this particular MKZ configuration. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill. The turbocharger needs to spool up to deliver its power, impacting efficiency in these conditions. On the highway, the MKZ is more comfortable, settling into a relaxed cruise that allows the engine to operate more efficiently. The six-speed automatic transmission plays a key role here, selecting the optimal gear for minimizing RPMs and maximizing fuel economy at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Lincoln MKZ AWD 2.0L is approximately $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined fuel economy of 23 MPG. The calculation also factors in national average fuel prices, which fluctuate but are standardized by the EPA for comparison purposes. It’s important to remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and the prices at your local gas stations.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, cold weather, and even tire pressure can impact the MPG you actually achieve. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds are more likely to see numbers closer to the EPA estimates.

Those who frequently engage the turbocharger with hard acceleration or navigate congested city streets will likely experience lower fuel economy. Some owners see highway figures near 26 MPG in real-world use. City MPG, however, can dip into the high teens with more aggressive driving.

How it compares

The 2018 Lincoln MKZ AWD 2.0L competes in a crowded segment of luxury sedans. Comparing its fuel economy to rivals puts its efficiency into perspective. The Acura TLX 2.4L with front-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined, a noticeable improvement but lacking the AWD capability and smoother engine response that some MKZ buyers prefer. The Lexus ES 350, while not offering AWD, manages 25 MPG combined with its V6 engine. Moving to competitors with available AWD, the BMW 330i xDrive achieves around 28 MPG combined, and the Audi A4 quattro comes in around 27 MPG combined, both representing efficiency advantages, however both have much higher MSRPs. The Cadillac ATS AWD with the 2.0L turbo is similar to the MKZ, also achieving 23 MPG combined. For buyers set on all-wheel drive and a comparable level of luxury, the MKZ represents a reasonably efficient choice, even if it’s not the absolute leader in its class. Drivers interested in MKZ MPG across all years can see how this model evolved.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to minimizing fuel consumption in the 2.0L turbocharged MKZ. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking, as these actions force the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible to keep the turbocharger from constantly spooling up and down.

Proper tire inflation plays a significant role in fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and reduces fuel efficiency. Consider using nitrogen in your tires, as it maintains a more consistent pressure than regular air, especially in fluctuating temperatures.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo in the trunk or cabin adds weight, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, such as golf clubs, sporting equipment, or other heavy objects. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, so it significantly reduces your overall fuel economy. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than letting it idle for an extended period.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy, especially on long trips. By avoiding sudden acceleration and deceleration, cruise control allows the engine to operate more efficiently. Be mindful, however, that cruise control may not be the best choice in hilly terrain, where it can cause the engine to work harder to maintain a constant speed.

Drivers can explore all Lincoln fuel economy data to understand the brand’s broader approach to efficiency.