Spy Photos: 2009 Lincoln MKZ

DEARBORN, Mich. — Lincoln's MKZ is getting a thorough face-lift, as evidenced by this prototype that spy photographers caught testing here on public roads. The midsize MKZ sedan has suffered an identity crisis since it arrived in 2007, as it endured continued styling tweaks and a name change, from Zephyr to MKZ, just one year into its life span.

The prototype is heavily disguised at the front and rear, but elements of a 2009 Lincoln MKS-style grille show through the camouflage. The new face should give the rather anonymous MKZ greater presence, and should go a long way toward solidifying Lincoln's new design theme. The dramatic vertically slatted split grille treatment first appeared on the MKR concept and has been seen on early prototypes for the future MKT crossover. Its implementation on the MKZ will help create a more focused direction for the Lincoln brand.

Rear camouflage hides the MKZ's redesigned taillamps, which will continue to stretch across the tail end, as on the current model.

Sources tell us that some interior modifications are also in the works.

What this means to you: This 2009 MKZ face-lift coincides with similar changes to its Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan siblings. — Kelly Toepke, News Editor