2015 Lincoln MKC Preview
Fast Facts:
5-passenger compact luxury crossover SUV
Choice between two turbocharged 4-cylinder engines
Several Lincoln- and segment-firsts in terms of equipment
On sale in the summer of 2014
Introduction
The 2015 Lincoln MKC is a new compact luxury crossover SUV with seating for 5 passengers and 25.2 cu. ft. of cargo space behind its rear seat. It shares its basic architecture, base engine, and certain components with the Ford Escape, but the MKC is otherwise distinctly different from that vehicle.
Exterior Features
Key Lincoln MKC styling cues include the brand's signature split-wing grille design, which is flanked by HID headlights and LED running lights. Lincoln points to the MKC's "high beltline and low shoulders," saying they give the new luxury crossover SUV "a sturdy, athletic presence." Side mirrors are pedestal-style, and around back the new MKC features full-width LED taillights and a single-piece, clamshell-style tailgate similar to those designs employed for the Audi Q5 and Q7.
An Approach Detection feature senses when the driver is within a few feet of the MKC, and illuminates soft lighting in the door pockets that serves to welcome those entering the vehicle. The headlights, taillights, and license plate lighting also glows as the driver and passengers enter the vehicle. In standard format, the MKC is equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels.
Interior Features
Inside, the 2015 MKC is equipped with a new steering wheel design that will be installed in all future Lincoln models. Leather upholstery with French stitching is standard, and the MKC is equipped with the same push-button transmission gear selection panel as the MKZ sedan. MyLincoln Touch features touch-screen operation of the SUV's infotainment system, and the MKC features an "always-on" smartphone connection through the standard MyLincoln Touch Mobile application, which provides owners remote access to the system.
Optional Features
Lincoln plans to offer MKC buyers several opportunities to upgrade the SUV. Highlights include premium Bridge of Weir leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, THX II Certified Audio System with a 14-speaker surround-sound system, optional panoramic glass Vista Roof, and a set of 19-inch aluminum wheels. An Active Park Assist system helps the driver to park the MKC in parallel parking spaces, and a new Park-Out Assist feature helps the driver to exit from tight parking situations. Numerous safety technologies are available for the new MKC, too.
Under the Hood
The 2015 Lincoln MKC is equipped with a standard turbocharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. This engine is rated to make 240 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 270 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm. An Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive system is optional, and equips the MKC with Lincoln Drive Control, a continuously controlled damping suspension offering Comfort, Normal, and Sport settings.
As an upgrade, the MKC can be optioned with a new turbocharged, 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine, and will be the first Ford Motor Company vehicle to offer this power plant. In the MKC, this new engine generates 275 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 300 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm.
Safety
Highlights from the Lincoln MKC's list of available safety features include a driver alertness monitoring system, blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert, and a lane-keeping system. The MKC will also offer a Collision Warning with Brake Support system, which is designed to help the driver avoid, or reduce the severity of, front collisions.
Technology
Using the "always-on" MyLincoln Mobile App and the modem embedded into every MKC, the SUV's owner can unlock, lock, and start the vehicle remotely. The system also includes a vehicle locator feature for when the owner has forgotten where the MKC is parked, and provides the ability to program engine starting times so that the car is warmed up or cooled off in advance of driving.
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