2013 Lincoln MKZ – Pushing the Limits of the 2.0 EcoBoost

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Nico Enrique - 2013 Bagged Lincoln MKZ

Instagram: @That.lincoln

Performance Stats:470 WHP

A Luxury Car Turned Performance Build

I originally chose the 2013 Lincoln MKZ as a comfortable, luxury daily driver for my long 12-hour shifts at a production plant. The car came with premium amenities, a remote starter, and—most importantly—the 2.0L EcoBoost engine. Being a huge fan of the Ford Focus RS in WRC, I knew this engine had potential for modifications. However, at the time, I had no experience in car tuning or modifications. My first attempts were, admittedly, not well-planned and very "ricer."

Then, disaster struck—I blew a piston in Cylinder 1 from recklessly two-stepping the car. That moment changed everything. Instead of giving up, I deep-dived into car forums, scoured the internet, and immersed myself in the world of car builds. YouTube and car shows became my go-to sources for learning how to modify vehicles correctly. This was the beginning of my true car journey, and four years later, my MKZ has evolved into a serious build, with many more upgrades and refinements to come. It’s 100% my forever car.

The Challenges of Building a Lincoln MKZ

Despite sharing its CD4 chassis with the Ford Fusion, the Lincoln MKZ isn’t a car people typically modify. There are no specific aftermarket support guides, no tutorials, and very few companies willing to guarantee fitment for performance parts. Many components had to be custom-fitted into the engine bay, and I often took risks purchasing parts that might not work. Some modifications were successful, while others inevitably failed.

Now, my passion is bringing this platform to the forefront as a tuner-friendly chassis. I’m highly active in the MKZ community, frequently sharing write-ups and tutorials on modifications to help others interested in building this platform.

The Inspiration Behind My Build

My love for cars started with my dad, who was passionate about classic cars, but it was WRC racing and YouTube builds that truly ignited my enthusiasm. Now, I’m pushing the limits of the 2.0L EcoBoost, proving that the MKZ can be a legitimate platform for enthusiasts. It’s an affordable luxury vehicle but still a Ford at heart, making it an accessible option for tuners. Both the 2.0L and 3.0L EcoBoost engines have incredible potential, yet the MKZ remains an underappreciated gem in the automotive world.

No one modifies newer Lincolns because they were originally expensive luxury cars. But the reality is, they offer great features—remote start, Apple CarPlay, ambient lighting, paddle shifters, and a spacious, comfortable interior—while still being cost-effective to modify, thanks to shared Ford Fusion parts.

Build List: Lincoln MKZ Performance Upgrades

Performance Modifications

• Built Motor: Manley Pistons, Mahle Rods, ARP Head Studs

• Ported and Polished Cylinder Head

• Balance Shaft Delete

• Massive Speed Oil Pan Baffle

• Mountune Cast Alloy Intake Manifold

• SNO Performance 4-Port Water Methanol Injection

• Garrett GTX 3071R Turbo

• XDI HPFP EVO High-Pressure Fuel Pump

• XDI 2050cc EVO Injectors

• Custom 3-inch Valved Exhaust

• HKS SSQV Blow-Off Valve

• CP-E 3-inch Downpipe

• CP-E Intercooler

• CP-E Hot and Cold Charge Piping

• Injen Cold Air Intake

• Dual Catch Can Setup

• Radium PCV Baffle Plate

Exterior Modifications

• Two-Tone Wrap with Embossed Top & Colored PPF Bottom

• BC Forged 2-Piece Wheels

• Custom Mustang GT Hood Vents

• JMA Racing Carbon Fiber Rear Ducktail Spoiler

• Custom ACP Panel Front Lip, Side Skirts & Rear Spats

• Custom Mesh Grille (Modified Stock Wing Grille)

• Airlift 3P Air Suspension System

• D2 Racing Front Struts & Bilstein B8 Rear Struts

• Steeda Rear Sway Bar

• Steeda Front & Rear Sway Bar End Links

Interior Modifications

• Suede-Wrapped Starlight Headliner

• Braum Orou Series Racing Seats

• Braum Harness Bar

• Racequip 5-Point Harness

• ZenCarbon Steering Wheel with RPM Lights & GT Paddle Shifters

• Custom 3-Gauge A-Pillar (GlowShift Universal Body Worked & Suede Wrapped)

• Banks Power Super Gauge x2

• SNO Performance Methanol Injection & Boost Controller

• Black Label Interior Conversion

• Custom Rear Trunk Setup (Battery Relocation, Auxiliary Fuse Box, Methanol Tank, and Air Lift Tank with Dual Compressors)

Technology & Audio Modifications

• Black Label 13-Speaker THX Sound System Upgrade

• Battery Relocation

The Work Behind the Build

While I handled most of the aftermarket modifications myself, I had valuable support from a friend who owns a NAPA AutoPro shop. Their team of master mechanics helped rebuild the motor with forged internals, ensuring the car could handle high power levels safely.

Future Plans

The next phase of the build focuses on transforming the MKZ into a full-time attack setup. I’m currently working on:

• A built transmission capable of handling 700HP

• Retrofitting Brembo brakes from a Volvo V70R

• Enhancing aerodynamics for better downforce

Dream Car

While my MKZ will always be my passion project and a car I’ll own forever, my ultimate dream car is the Ferrari Testarossa—a true icon of automotive history.

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