New for 2015

The 2015 Lincoln MKC is an entirely new vehicle that ushers the luxury brand into new territory.

Worth the Wait

Think of popular small luxury crossovers, and the names Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz usually come to mind, but not Lincoln.

Until now, that is. With the 2015 MKC, Lincoln is putting its own unique spin on a growing segment of vehicles known for their appealing combination of luxury, style, and practicality.

The 2015 Lincoln MKC delivers on all three fronts. A stylish exterior envelopes modern, fuel-efficient powertrains with plenty of kick for the morning commute. Even when that power can’t be unleashed, the MKC’s interior is a very nice place to be, with well-crafted trim and plenty of technology.

Powertrains and Performance

For its inaugural year, the Lincoln MKC will be offered with two powertrains, both of which feature EcoBoost technology for added efficiency and stout performance.

Base models come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that punches well above its weight with 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.

EPA fuel-economy ratings for the 2.0-liter powertrain are 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway)* with front-wheel drive, and 22 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive.

For the truly power-hungry, there’s also a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder, which makes its debut in the 2015 MKC. Producing 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque, this engine comes with the same six-speed automatic as the 2.0-liter, but is only available with all-wheel drive.

Lincoln buyers really get the best of both worlds here. Since the increase in power isn’t linked to a massive increase in displacement, the 2.3-liter still gets good fuel economy, as its 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway)* rating attests.

Features and Trims

The 2015 Lincoln MKC comes in a practical five-door, five-seat crossover body style, and with plenty of luxurious features to satisfy the discerning car buyer.

So no, Lincoln wasn’t exaggerating when it named the base MKC trim level Premiere. For a starting price of $33,995** (with the 2.0-liter engine and front-wheel drive), buyers get a 10-way power heated driver’s seat with power lumbar and memory, an eight-inch LCD touch screen, nine-speaker audio, dual-zone climate control, and a host of other features.

Next up is the Select model, which builds on the Premiere. In addition to all of the applicable equipment from the Premiere, the Select adds Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats, ambient lighting, 18-inch nickel-anointed aluminum wheels, and more.

The top MKC trim level is the Reserve. Significant features include a Panoramic Vista Roof, navigation with voice control, and a hands-free liftgate. There are also a couple of notable standalone options.

To further refine the MKC’s ride, the available Lincoln Drive Control system with adjustable damping can change suspension settings depending on conditions. There’s also an Enhanced THX II Certified audio system for ultimate sound quality.

Exterior/Interior

To match its premium level of equipment, the 2015 Lincoln MKC sports a sophisticated exterior that’s both stylish and distinctive. The bold winged grille echoes the front fascia of the classic 1940 Continental while, at the back, a wraparound liftgate makes a seamless base for full-width taillights.

It’s a bold look that would suit a much larger luxury sedan or a full-size SUV, let alone a scrappy compact crossover. Even the base MKC comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and chrome dual exhaust tips, too, so it will always look good at the stoplight.

The exterior is matched by the interior. The MKC debuts a new steering wheel design for Lincoln, with leather trim and redundant audio controls for ease of use while driving. It’s complemented by a sculpted instrument panel with Lincoln’s trademark push-button shifter. The entire cabin also gets classy aluminum trim.

Safety

Lincoln has safety covered as well. The 2015 MKC comes standard with features like anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and front, front side-impact, and driver’s knee airbags. There’s also a Safety Canopy System with side-curtain airbags.

Optional safety technology includes BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with rear cross-traffic alert, a forward-sensing system, and lane-keep assist.

Bottom Line

Lincoln may be fashionably late to the compact luxury crossover party, but the 2015 MKC certainly makes a grand entrance. The exterior and interior offer the style and comfort of a proper luxury vehicle, while powerful-yet-efficient EcoBoost engines and array of safety and technology features add plenty of substance.

Don’t take our word for it though, find out what made the 2015 Lincoln MKC worth the wait by stopping by 3Birds Template and test driving one for yourself.

*EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary

**Base MSRP and base plus package price exclude destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Optional equipment not included

Image: Lincoln Motor Company