Lincoln MKZ

Importing a used Lincoln MKZ from the USA

The Lincoln MKZ is a genuinely American take on the mid-size luxury sedan — a quiet, comfortable four-door that was rarely, if ever, sold in Germany, which is exactly why importing one from the USA is appealing to buyers who want something different on the road here. Built on shared Ford architecture but dressed and tuned as a Lincoln, the MKZ offers V6 and turbocharged power, an available all-wheel-drive layout and, notably, a hybrid version at no price premium in the US. USCar Trader acts purely as an independent broker: we find, verify and import a used MKZ for you, with no dealer margin and no new-car sales. Here is the practical picture.

Generations at a glance

The MKZ replaced the short-lived Lincoln Zephyr for the 2007 model year, so the first generation (2007–2012) is effectively the Zephyr evolved, sharing the Ford Fusion/Mazda6 (CD3) underpinnings. The second generation (2013–2020) moved to the newer Fusion (CD4) platform and brought the brand's split-wing grille, a push-button gear selector and a dramatic available retractable panoramic roof. A significant 2017 refresh restyled the front, dropped the split grille for a single Lincoln-star design and introduced a high-output twin-turbo V6. Production ended in 2020, making late second-generation cars the most modern import candidates.

Powertrain lineup

The US MKZ offered a broad engine menu. The first generation used a 3.5-litre Duratec V6 (around 263 hp) with front- or all-wheel drive. The second generation launched with a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbo four (about 240 hp) and a 3.7-litre Ti-VCT V6 (around 300 hp), plus the MKZ Hybrid pairing a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle four with an electric motor for a combined output near 188 hp and strong city economy. The 2017 refresh added a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 making up to roughly 400 hp with all-wheel drive — the performance flagship. Most versions use a six-speed automatic; the hybrid uses an eCVT.

Trims in the US market

The MKZ was always a four-door sedan. US trims evolved over the years but centred on well-equipped Select, Reserve and Black Label tiers in the later run, with the hybrid available across most of them. American cars are typically generous in features — leather, heated and ventilated seats, Revel audio on later cars, adaptive suspension, and the signature retractable glass roof — reflecting the MKZ's role as an approachable luxury sedan.

The used market stateside

The MKZ sold steadily across the US, so supply of clean, moderate-mileage cars is good, particularly second-generation examples. Hybrids are plentiful because they were popular with buyers wanting economy without a price penalty. As with any US car, examples from dry southern and western states show less corrosion and are worth prioritising. We evaluate candidates through history reports and, where useful, an independent inspection before you commit.

Who should import one

An imported MKZ suits a buyer who wants a quiet, softly sprung American luxury sedan that stands apart from the usual German choices — whether that is a frugal MKZ Hybrid, a smooth 3.7 V6, or the potent 3.0 twin-turbo AWD. It is a comfortable long-distance cruiser with a distinctive character, and its Ford mechanical base means parts and servicing knowledge are broadly accessible.

Key specifications

How reliable is it?

The MKZ is generally dependable, but a few items deserve scrutiny. The 2.0-litre EcoBoost four has a known history of coolant intrusion into the cylinders on some units, so check for coolant-loss history and have the engine assessed. Early second-generation cars used the MyLincoln Touch / SYNC system, which could be laggy or glitchy before software updates — confirm the infotainment works cleanly. The retractable panoramic roof is a wonderful feature but adds seals and drains that must be maintained to avoid leaks. On the hybrid, verify battery state of health and that the system transitions smoothly. Push-button exterior door releases and their electrics are worth testing. With a documented, well-kept car these are manageable, but they shape which specific MKZ is worth buying.

What US models do differently

US MKZs run amber rear turn signals, have no rear fog lamp, and read in mph. Headlight aim follows US standards and may need adjustment or replacement. Infotainment mapping, radio bands and telematics are North-American, and some connected features may not carry over. Equipment content is usually high, which is part of the MKZ's appeal as an import.

Seven steps to your import

The sequence is: choose the exact MKZ and spec; verify VIN and build origin; pay securely through escrow; arrange inland transport to a US port and ocean freight to a European port; clear customs on arrival; complete technical inspection and individual approval (TUEV / §21 Einzelabnahme) with any needed modifications; then register in Germany or your EU country. We manage each step and keep documentation aligned for customs.

Customs, taxes and costs explained

Remember: no origin proof, no 0% duty – and 19% German import VAT is due on every import.

Two charges are separate. EU import duty can be 0% under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 — in force since 1 July 2026, for directly transported vehicles, through 31 December 2029 — but only where US origin is provable from the VIN and build plant. The MKZ was assembled in Hermosillo, Mexico, so many cars will not satisfy the US-origin condition and the standard third-country car rate applies; we confirm this per VIN and never assume. Separately and in every case, 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) is due on import. Both lines are quoted openly, we add no broker margin, and nothing is advertised as duty-free.

German TÜV and registration

Typical approval work includes fitting a rear fog lamp, adjusting or replacing headlights for European aim, handling side markers and confirming the odometer reads correctly. The MKZ's Ford-based mechanicals pass individual approval readily with complete documentation, after which the car goes onto German plates.

The buyer checklist

Match the VIN to the title and check the build plant for origin. Obtain a full Carfax or AutoCheck report for accidents, title branding and odometer history. Inspect for underbody corrosion, especially on ex-salt-belt cars. On 2.0 EcoBoost cars, check specifically for coolant-loss history. Verify the hybrid battery health where applicable, and test the panoramic roof and door electrics. Confirm a clean, lien-free title before releasing any funds.

Questions and answers

Was the Lincoln MKZ ever sold in Germany?

No, the MKZ was a North-American model, which is exactly why importing a used one from the USA gives you a distinctive luxury sedan here.

Which MKZ engine should I choose?

The 3.7 V6 is a smooth all-rounder, the hybrid is the economy pick, and the 3.0 twin-turbo AWD is the performance flagship. The 2.0 EcoBoost needs a careful coolant history check.

What are common Lincoln MKZ problems?

Possible 2.0 EcoBoost coolant intrusion, early MyLincoln Touch/SYNC glitches, panoramic roof seal maintenance, and door-electronics checks.

Will an imported MKZ get 0% import duty?

Often not, because the MKZ was built in Mexico. The 0% rate needs provable US origin from the VIN; we verify each car and never guarantee it.

Is the 19% import VAT always due?

Yes. German import VAT of 19% applies to the import regardless of the car's origin.

Can the MKZ Hybrid be registered in Germany?

Yes, once it passes individual approval, with battery health and lighting confirmed as part of the process.

How long does importing take?

Typically several weeks from purchase to registration, mostly set by ocean freight and the TUEV/approval schedule.

Discover more via the Lincoln in the Carhub, compare related models such as the MKS, the Continental or the MKX, or browse current MKZ listings.