Interesting post, Left. I have a 2015 MKZ (metallic black) with the V6 engine. Before I forget to say it, the paint on this car is absolutely sensational. Ford/Lincoln really know how to paint a car.
My single favorite thing about the car is the power. The car has a feeling of effortless power that enables me to glide in and out of traffic effortlessly. It truly drives like a V8 engine.
I'll respectfully disagree with you about the transmission. I find the transmission to be fine. And in Sport Mode it is great fun! Coupled with the powerful engine, the car is a lot of fun to drive.
Lastly, the tech on this car is definitely ahead of its time. The instrument cluster would not be out of place on a 2020 car. I really like the simplicity of the control layout. It looks unique and futuristic, and definitely prevents the car from looking dated. My only regret is that the Synch 2 system cannot manage Apple Car Play. That is truly unfortunate.
I agree with you on the comfort. While the seats in our Cadillac CT4-V are better, these seats have good lumbar support and enable me to handle relatively long drives with ease.
The MKZ really makes me regret that Lincoln has exited the sedan market. I think that this was a shortsighted mistake, but beancounters will be beancounters, I suppose.