The upcoming 2015 Lincoln MKC is a very important car. The American luxury marque’s future may hinge on whether this compact crossover can replicate the success of the MKZ sedan, and continue the brand’s renaissance. Things are still looking rosy, with an MSRP ste at $33,995, one of the lowest in its segment.
The MKC will go on sale next year in Premiere, Select and Reserve trim levels and a choice of 2.0 liter or 2.3 liter turbocharged powertrains. A well-equipped MKC should undercut BMW, Mercedes and Audi, and is comparable to the smaller Buick Encore.
We haven’t gotten a close look at the MKC yet, but suspect there’s a Ford Escape hidden under there. Like the MKZ, that means it’s got a good foundation, and there’s no similarity whatsoever between the two vehicles at a glance. Lincoln’s Active Noise Control should help to further set the MKC apart. The MKC is available with a full-length panoramic roof, nineteen-inch wheels, a smart key that detects when the car’s owner is near and lights up the area, and elegant Bridge of Weir leather. A built-in modem enables the Lincoln Experience app even if there’s not a smartphone to tether it to.
A 2.3 liter, 275-horsepower EcoBoost engine is available as an upgrade, and Lincoln also offers all-wheel drive and an active suspension. Standard equipment includes Roll Stability Control, a backup camera, pushbutton start with an intelligent key, a remote start and SYNC with MyLincoln Touch. Premium features like an active parking assist, blind-spot monitoring system, voice-activated navigation and heated rear seats are available. A well-equipped MKC will set you back about $45,000.
