A compact luxury crossover that shares its underpinnings with the Ford Escape, the Lincoln MKC has proven a nicely sorted entry point to the brand's range of crossovers and SUVs and a worthy competitor to vehicles like the BMW X1 and X3 and the Audi Q3 and Q5.
Nothing changes for 2018 as Lincoln readies a restyled MKC for the 2019 model year.
Standard power is from a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (240 hp/270 lb-ft of torque) called up from the Escape, but the MKC can be optioned with a stronger 2.3L motor borrowed from the Mustang and good for 280 hp and 305 lb-ft. All-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission are included. The 2.0L motor can be optioned with an idle stop feature that cuts the motor at stoplights in a bid to reduce fuel consumption. It makes a very small contribution to economy in city driving, but we take what we can get, right?
With that idle stop feature, the MKC's consumption estimates are 12.1/9.3 L/100 km (city/highway); without it, the city figure increases to 12.3. The 2.3L engine is rated at 13.1/9.4.
Both engines provide good performance, the larger engine obviously being the one to choose if you equate strong acceleration with an upscale vehicle. The MKC handles well too, thanks to adaptive dampers that firm up the ride when the car is set to its sport driving mode.
The MKC range starts with the Select trim, which comes with 10-way power front seats, proximity key with push-button start, and a power liftgate all come standard. MKCs also receive Lincoln's approach detection with illuminated logo welcome mat, ultra-soft Bridge of Weir leather upholstery, a nine-speaker premium sound system, and the Sync3 infotainment system. High-tech features like radar cruise control, forward collision warning with auto-brake, lane-keeping assist, and a parking assistant are optional.
While the MKC boasts the most European feel of any of the Lincoln's SUV models, it's still tough to get past this brand's reputation as a favourite of old folks when considering this little utility against its Euro competitors. And there are so many other vehicles to consider in this class not only from Audi and BMW but also Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Jaguar and Alfa Romeo. We see the MKC's appeal but if you're looking for a driver's vehicle, you're more likely to find what you want elsewhere.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
