Renewable Gossip

Lincoln announced that the fuel efficiency rating for their first ever hybrid, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, is now official: 41 mpg rating in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway. The official EPA rating makes it the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America.

A few years ago, a luxury sedan achieving more than 40 MPG in the city would have been big news. With hybrid technology, it’s quickly becoming a regular occurrence.

Ford is positioning the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid to compete against the 2010 Lexus HS 250h. The MKZ beats the HS250h in terms of fuel economy by 6 MPG, and provides more engine power and passenger room. The MKZ’s combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide 191 net horsepower.

“The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid offers everything our customers look for in a midsize luxury sedan, plus unsurpassed fuel economy,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president, Global Product Development, in a press release. The MKZ’s claim for fuel economy leadership in the luxury category may be short-lived, with the premium compact Lexus CT 200h hitting dealerships later this year or in early 2011.

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