26th Feb 2012, 23:54
"I also like the Lincoln MKS Ecoboost, but not sure if I can fork out that much money for a new one, and I'm also not sure if it's going to give me problems in the long run."
The MKS is a powerful car but it hasn't been around long enough to prove itself. It you want a Lincoln with proven reliability, get a Town Car.
26th Feb 2012, 21:45
Well, I am looking around as well, and I have taken a few rides. I am looking for fuel economy and a quiet ride in a family sedan. It would replace a Ford Windstar minivan.
The Ford Fusion body is the same as the Lincoln MKZ. There is plenty of space in the front and the rear. However, I found the ride firmer than I prefer today. 20 years younger, I would have loved the ride as firm as it is. I also thought the Fusion allows too much road noise and too much engine noise inside the cabin. I thought there was no improvement over the Windstar in this regard.
I really liked the Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 (same platform). They ride softer, and muffle engine and road noises really well. There is much less space in the back, though.
I tried 4 cylinder engines only. Currently I would give the Malibu the nod.