2015 Lincoln MKC.
The introduction of the 2015 MKC gives Lincoln the edge in the fastest growing segment of the luxury automotive market, namely the small premium utility segment projected to increase by 28 per cent by 2018.
“The Lincoln MKC was designed to capture the attention of a worldwide audience,” said Matt Van Dyke, director, Global Lincoln. “Spirited, stylish and smart, it truly is one of the most exciting new products from Lincoln in years.”
Designed in a dedicated Lincoln Design Studio and based on the Ford Escape platform, the good-looking MKC strikes a sporty yet elegant pose enhanced by 19- or 20-inch alloys. Its sleek, sculpted body, high belt line and low shoulders create a sturdy, athletic presence, and a wide track and lower centre of gravity ensures better handling and cornering stability.
To complement the vehicle’s full-width LED tail lamps, longer-lasting and energy-efficient HID headlamps are integrated within the Lincoln signature split-wing grille, combining form and functionality in a fluid overall design that is refreshingly distinctive in appearance.
It is no wonder that Lincoln hired the always intriguing Matthew McConaughey to star in its commercials!
The evolution of Lincoln design carries through to the cabin interior, where luxury materials in brushed aluminum-and-wood trim and a high-tech environment create an inviting and practical driver-and-passenger space.
Performance
Owners of the 2015 MKC have a choice between two turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engines. A standard 2-litre, 240hp /270 lb-ft of torque and an optional 2.3-litre from the 2015 Mustang, which produces an impressive 285hp at 5,500 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque at 2,750 rpm.
A combination of turbocharging, direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing delivers levels of performance and refinement that rival bigger engines, but with the big advantage of better fuel economy. Both powertrains are mated to a smooth-shifting, six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifter on the highly tactile, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Refinements to the twin-scroll turbocharger and the three-port integrated exhaust manifold cylinder head are pivotal to the engine’s increased power and fuel efficiency.
Grip and solid response are kept in line with standard all-wheel drive, which evaluates road conditions and transfers power accordingly between the wheels. This modulates the vehicle’s torque to manage understeer and oversteer situations, making for a more sporty drive experience.
Further, Lincoln Drive Control orchestrates continuous controlled damping, electric power-assisted steering and active noise control to achieve a smooth, precise and quiet ride.
Drivers can select any of three drive modes: sport, comfort, and normal. As is the norm in many high-performance sports cars, each selected mode is highlighted in colour on the instrument panel with red for sports and blue for comfort modes.
On-board technologies
The SYNC feature with MyLincoln Touch system enables control of phone, climate and optional navigation by means of voice-activated commands or simple touch controls on an 8-inch screen. Knobs and buttons on the centre console provide additional access to adjust the AC and sound system settings.
Other useful driver-assist technologies are Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning, Lane-keeping System, Blind Spot and Cross-traffic Alert Detect and Rear-view Camera Display.
The base price of the MKC 2-litre model is competitive at $39,940, with an additional $10k for the 2.3 litre model.
Estimated fuel efficiency numbers for the base engine are 12.4 L/100km city and 9.0 L/100km highway.
See your local dealer for a test drive.