2015 Lincoln MKC

Lincoln’s entry into the luxury small SUV space does what crossovers do best, blending sportiness with utility. The 2015 MKC is built on the same platform as the Ford Escape, but with fairly substantial changes. To help set it apart from its Ford cousin, the MKC has a wider stance, and lower track, both of which contribute to its sporty looks. Plus the large “angel wing” grille is unmistakably Lincoln. LED lighting abounds, with daytime running lights and LED taillights on the wraparound liftgate.

It will be powered by one of two turbocharged engines, Ford’s popular 2.0-liter EcoBoost, with 240hp and 270 lb-ft. of torque or a freshly-engineered 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which pushes out a respectable 275hp, and 300 lb-ft. of torque. An adaptive suspension system is standard on the AWD model and optional on the front-wheel drive model. This offers normal, sport and comfort modes, and dynamically adjusting to road conditions up to 20 times per second.

Inside, the MKC seats five comfortably. It has real aluminum trim and soft-touch surfaces, and wood trim is available as an option. Naturally, high quality leather-trimmed seats are available as an option as well. Other luxury touches include an ambient exterior lighting system that automatically illuminates as you approach the vehicle, and optional remote lock and start from your smartphone. Like the Escape, the MKC has the same convenient hands-free power liftgate, which can be activated by kicking your foot under the rear bumper.

Available safety options include a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, and intelligent lane-keeping to help keep your from drifting out of a lane unintentionally.

Lincoln has yet to reveal detailed specs for the MKC, but says it will be available in Summer 2014, with a base price of $33,995(USD).