Goodbye MKC, hello Corsair! Lincoln’s compact crossover is (reportedly) ditching the confusing three-letter, naming nomenclature in favor of something much more memorable. And following in the aviation-inspired footsteps of its larger Aviator sibling, it has a sleek all-new look.
However, will it help sales hit new heights for the blue oval’s luxury division? Let’s take an illustrative, pre-launch glimpse at what to expect from Lincoln’s smallest CUV offering.
Déjà Vu Styling
So at first glance, you could be fooled into thinking you are looking at just another Aviator. In fact, the silhouette, floating roof design and front-end could almost be a dead-ringer of the Corsair’s larger brother. Yet it is actually different.
The larger 2020 Lincoln Aviator
While smaller dimensions are the most obvious difference, the Corsair also has stubbier proportions, sleek LED headlamps, simpler lower frontal styling and an evolution of the clam-shell tailgate that debuted on the MKC. Its tapered roofline helps exude a sportier appearance compared to its bigger sibling too.
Sumptuous Accommodation
While the outgoing MKC had interior styling links to Ford’s more mundane offerings, the Corsair is expected to be a unique and luxurious affair. Following on from the aeronautical interior theme found in the Aviator, the cabin will feature vast swathes of real wood, chrome and quality leathers. On top of that, Black Label-specific design packages will push the luxury envelope further again.
Expect a similar touchscreen infotainment system as the Aviator
A large touch-screen with Sync 3 dominates the center dash, with slim line vents, piano key-like gear selector and heating and ventilation controls located below. Other tech goodies should include a customizable LCD instrument cluster, smartphone enabled lock/unlock access and Lincoln’s Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assists; including traffic jam assist, evasive steering aid, reverse braking aid, and active park assist.
Under The Hood
Powertrains will likely mirror those found in the new Ford Escape. These include a 2.0-litre Ecoboost four-cylinder pumping out 245 hp, a 2.3-litre turbo producing north of 285 hp and 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid option. Front-wheel drive will be standard, with all-wheel drive being optional. Power will be sent to the pavement via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Like its Escape sibling, the Corsair will move away from the current C1 architecture that underpins the old MKC. It will ride an all-new global architecture which forms the basis for the all-new Focus (the one that isn’t coming to America). The new platform will aid in increased torsional stiffness, crash protection and interior packaging.
Luxurious Alternatives
The crossover boom shows no sign of abating, hence why Lincoln are going all-out across the board (although they’re yet to offer a smaller, Lexus UX rival). Still, will the Corsair appeal to those who would normally gravitate towards the European establishment? Time will tell.
There’s plenty of competition in the premium compact SUV segment
It’ll certainly have a tough fight against the likes of the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Cadillac XT5, Volvo XC60, Lexus RX, Acura RDX, Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Jaguar F-Pace.
Launch Timing
Prototypes have already been spotted wearing thing disguise, so we anticipate a reveal in the near future – possibly even as early as New York’s International Auto Show in April. Sales will likely start before year’s end as a MY2020 offering.
What are your thoughts on Lincoln’s MKC replacement? Share your views in the comments below.
