2019 Lincoln MKC – Automotive Review

Premium design features make the 2019 Lincoln MKC enjoyable for all - except for your wallet.

Overview

Stemming from its Ford Escape counterpart, the Lincoln MKC holds a more driver-focused orientation. With refined exterior styling, enriching comfortability, and adaptive technology, the MKC is ideal for those looking for a more premium small utility vehicle. Although starting at $42,150 CND, buyers have to consider, is the extra cost worth more than competitors highest model.

Styling

Visually the MKC is very appealing; equipped with an improved grille. It has a reminiscent of the Lincoln Navigator luxury, separating its appearance from the Escape hidden under the shell. Inside the cabin, Lincoln has dressed the MKC Reserve exquisitely. Comfortability comes standard with a heated and cooled 12-way power-automated front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel, and dual-zone temperature control. While the seating package may not stack up to the Lincoln Navigator or Continental in term of luxury, but it’s a substantial improvement on the Escape. Additionally, features like the hands-free power liftgate, a voice-activated navigation system, and a breathtaking panoramic vista roof provide that required pop for consumers.

Exterior wise, the Lincoln MKC looks compressed, considering the seating capacity is for five comfortably, and the cargo space is sufficient; the outside doesn’t reflect upon the headroom. The front end, as I mentioned has received a facelift, and the rear still wears the cyclops style taillight cascading across the back, with Lincoln outlines overtop.

Driving

While the Lincoln MKC could be replaced next year by the emergence of the 2020 Lincoln Corsair, the end of Lincoln’s smallest crossover is adequate. The base model 2.0-litre four-cylinder is shared with the Escape. That said, the MKC also has a 285-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine as an option in the Reserve badge.

The transmission shifts smoothly and delivers power when needed in all circumstances. Thanks to the adaptive all-wheel drive the turbocharged engine’s power is transitioned thoroughly to avoid any slips or mishandling. While acceleration isn’t much of a standout, there seemed to be little lag when the pedal hits the floor. However, it’s tough competition like the Audi Q5 launched much quicker. During testing our fuel consumption ran about 12.5L/100km with a smaller fuel tank capacity. Completely full, the range will grant you just under 500km depending on which of the three driving modes you prefer to operate.

Summary

Lincoln has delivered a luxury crossover capable of fulfilling the lack of amenity in the Escape, yet the MKC still has its issues. The price is unreasonable for the overall return from Lincoln, and overall execution wasn’t as strong as I’ve seen from competitors. A buyer may want to look towards the Infinity QX50, Acura RDX, Volvo XC60 or perhaps wait for the Lincoln Corsair.

Key Features:

  • MKC 2.0L Select – starting at $40,098 CND
  • MKC 2.0L Reserve – starting at $43,875 CND
  • MKC 2.3L Reserve – starting at $45,737 CND
  • Turbocharged 2.0L I-4 (AWD)
    • Horsepower: 245 @ 5,500
    • Torque: 275 @ 3,000
  • Turbocharged 2.3L I-4 (AWD)
    • Horsepower: 285 @ 5,500
    • Torque: 305 @ 2,750
  • Fuel Economy
    • Est. L/100 Km: 12.3 City / 9.3 Hwy
  • Head Room
    • Front Seats 39.6 in.
    • Rear Seats 38.7 in.
  • Leg Room
    • Front Seats 42.8 in.
    • Rear Seats 36.8 in.
  • Cargo Volume Behind Front Seats 53.1 cu. ft.
  • Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats 25.2 cu. ft.
  • Total Passenger Volume 97.9 cu. ft.
  • Towing Capacity Optional: Class II Trailer Tow Package – tow up to 3,000 lbs./2.0L and 2.3L Engines
Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email