Power will come from two engines from Ford’s EcoBoost family of turbocharged fours. The standard 2.0-liter produces 240 hp at 5,500 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm, while an optional 2.3-liter motor generates 275 hp at 5,500 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. The transmission choice has yet to be announced but it’s expected to be the same 6-speed automatic found in the Escape. Standard MKCs will have power directed to the front wheels, but an all-wheel-drive version is optional.
The interior is dominated by an 8-inch touch screen and infotainment system using Ford’s SYNC and Lincoln MyTouch software. Mod cons include Ford’s active parallel parking assist, blind spot warnings, lane keeping systems, driver alertness sensors and collision warnings. Seven standard airbags come standard, including the only knee airbag in its class.
The stylish exterior fits with the rest of the Lincoln family, with a split-wing grille featured prominently up front and a solid light bar stretching across the tailgate. An optional “Vista Roof” adds a panoramic glass ceiling. Lincoln is hoping to target a younger demographic and expand their sales in what it believes are “desirable markets” on the east and west coast. Expect the MKC to be in showrooms in summer 2014.
Live images by Mark Elias.
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