Instead of giving the Lincoln MKZ a minor mid-cycle refresh, the automaker decided to give the entry-level sedan a whole new look and a brand new engine, both of which have made our jaws drop. The updated sedan debuted at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show with a host of revisions, but the best part is the MKZ's new engine. The motor is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that churns out 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. The MKZ will also come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged-four and with a hybrid option.

With 400 hp the MKZ becomes the most powerful Lincoln ever, but that kind of performance is only available with the AWD model; the FWD model is detuned to around 350 hp. The 2.0-liter motor will produce 245 hp. Exterior changes include optional adaptive LED headlights and a Lincoln logo "welcome mat" projected down from the side mirrors at night when unlocking the vehicle. When it goes on sale it'll be the first Lincoln to have the brand's new signature grille. The rear is basically the same but features a refreshed bumper. From the front the new MKZ looks extremely similar to a Jaguar which isn't a bad thing. Lincoln has also gone to town on the MKZ's interior with a refreshed center console.

The touch sliding controls are gone and have been replaced by actual buttons and knobs. There are two new Lincoln Label themes-Chalet and Vineyard-and a fully retractable panoramic glass roof for unlimited headroom. The MKZ also gets new technology, which includes Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Ford Park Assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, an auto hold feature that will keep the vehicle at a complete stop without the brake and Lincoln's Drive Control with three driving modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport. The MKZ looks gorgeous and has the power to back it up. It's even a bit fun, with the available Driver's Package on the range-topping version.

It adds bigger wheels, painted brake calipers, performance-oriented suspension and a sportier interior. The package also adds a torque vectoring rear differential, which will be identical to the one found in the Ford Focus RS. Pricing has not been announced yet but we should know soon as it goes on sale spring 2016.