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DEARBORN, Mich. — Lincoln recently announced that its first hybrid, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, is now the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America, as certified by the EPA.

"The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid provides a real choice in the marketplace for customers looking for a vehicle that not only makes a statement about who they are but also reflects their ideals," explained Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of global product development.

"It offers the best fuel economy in its segment, a host of advanced safety features and all the amenities and modern design of a true luxury sedan," he continued.

The vehicle's final fuel economy certification became available this week, and the model will carry an EPA label of 41 mpg for city driving and 36 mpg on the highway when it goes on sale in the fall.

"The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid offers everything our customers look for in a midsize luxury sedan, plus unsurpassed fuel economy," Kuzak pointed out. "Our engineers worked to ensure the hybrid electric motor and engine complement each other in a fashion that reflects the truly refined driving experience that is synonymous with the Lincoln name."