Lincoln’s 2017 MKZ sedan gets an exclusive 400hp turbo V6 to go along with its mid-cycle facelift.

The updated saloon debuts in Los Angeles with a 3.0-liter GTDI V6 twin-turbo engine, based on the 2.7-liter unit found on the Ford and Lincoln lineup. When paired with all-wheel drive, the engine is rated at 400hp (406 PS) and 400lb-ft (542Nm) of torque, while in FWD, it comes with 350hp (356 PS) and the same torque figure.

The engine makes the facelifted MKZ the most powerful Lincoln ever built and it’s added to the 2.0-liter four-pot turbo, with 245hp (249 PS) and the gasoline / electric hybrid variant. No details on the 3.7-liter Duratec V6 have been announced so far, but in the pre-facelift MKZ, it produces 300hp (304 PS).

Exterior modifications include the new front end with the firm’s revised grille, previewed on the Lincoln Continental Concept, and new full LED headlights.

Inside, engineers added new switches and dials that replace the slider adjustments, commonly used buttons and USB ports which are easier to access, two new Lincoln Label themes (Chalet and Vineyard), and a fully retractable panoramic glass roof that offers “the largest open-air roof among sedans”.

The Driver’s Pack is available as an option in the range-topping AWD and it brings the same torque-vectoring rear-differential as the Focus RS, 19-inch wheels, light Magnetic-finished grille, Ebony painted calipers, Ebony interior with carbon fiber appliques, customizable multi-contour seats and aluminum pedal covers.

Since technology plays a main role, the updated MKZ is equipped with the latest Ford Park Assist, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, auto hold feature which will keep the car at a complete stop, without the driver having to press and hold the brake pedal, and the Lincoln Drive Control, providing three drive modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport.

The “new” Lincoln MKZ goes on sale in summer 2016. No pricing details have been announced so far, but we will remind you that the pre-facelift version starts at $35,190 MSRP.

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