Celebrating The 2019 Lincoln MKC Before It’s Replaced By The Corsair

The Lincoln MKC has never been an earth-shattering product. It has never been the fastest, the most lavish, or the most agile. And it certainly wasn’t the best-seller in its segment. What the MKC is, however, is a truly solid offering that delivered a rather refined and quiet experience. Alas, the MKC’s days on this earth are numbered as Ford’s Lincoln Motor Company preps to do away with the nameplate, while at the same time replacing it with Corsair. So, here’s one last look at the Lincoln MKC before it joins the likes of the MKX in the automotive graveyard.

As we noted in November of 2017, the MKC receives a few minor updates for the 2019 model year. The most notable changes are up front, as the compact luxury crossover SUV does away with the split-wing grille and replaces it with a broad rectangular grille made of chrome mesh with the Lincoln star front and center. There’s also a set of redesigned LED headlights that bring the model closer in appearance to that of other new Lincoln models such as the Nautilus, Aviator, and Navigator.

Both of the MKC’s powertrain options get carried over for 2019. The base engine is the familiar turbocharged 2.0L inline four-cylinder with 245 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque with either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive. Those looking for more power can opt for the turbocharged 2.3L inline four-cylinder engine that makes 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. That engine comes standard with all-wheel-drive. The 6-speed automatic transmission is carried over for the 2019 Lincoln MKC on both engines.

The 2019 Lincoln MKC will continue offering the range-topping Black Label trim, which is filled to the brim with high-quality materials and high-tech features. As an added touch, Black Label models greet drivers and passengers with “welcome mat” lights to help avoid puddles and other unpleasant surprises.

The MKC Black Label is equipped with 12-way power adjustable seats with lumbar support. A hands-free liftgate is included out back to make loading cargo easier, while reinforcing the MKC’s luxury theme.

Customers can choose from three Black Label themes for 2019 Lincoln MKC, which draw inspiration from the realms of the arts, travel, fine food and culture, according to Lincoln:

• Modern Heritage: a timeless ensemble of elegance without ostentation, Modern Heritage is perfect for those who appreciate a clean, modern aesthetic. This theme features argento wood accents and seats in vianca white venetian leather finished with the Lincoln Black Label star insignia.
• Indulgence: a rich, sumptuous interior designed to match the most refined tastes. Visually enticing, Indulgence features surfaces trimmed in venetian leather and alcantara cloth. Colors include Truffle and Ganache, finished with accents from rich ziricote wood – the same as you might find in the world of yachts or musical instruments.
• Center Stage: inspired by the fashion of the theater, Center Stage captures the excitement of a curtain skirting across the main stage on opening night. It features an exclusive diamond-L perforation pattern on the alcantara cloth seat inserts, finished with precisely stitched foxfire red piping. Exotic wood accents enhance the architectural design, while jet black venetian leather accented by foxfire red adds a dramatic flair.

In addition, the 2019 Lincoln MKC Black Label includes free maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles. When it’s time for service, Lincoln will pick up and deliver the car for no additional cost. Unlimited, free car washes and one detailing per year are also included. Concierge services are also included, which gives owners the ability to book a restaurant reservation right from the car. Additionally, one free year of CLEAR is included. CLEAR is a travel service that helps speed up the security check at airports and stadiums.

Technology in the 2019 Lincoln MKC includes the SYNC3 infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, available navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and an available 14-speaker THX premium audio system. Though the compact crossover already offers is a broad range of driver-focused technologies, the 2019 Lincoln MKC adds pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, which can decrease the risk of potential front-end crashes. The feature can also help reduce the severity of some front collisions involving other vehicles and pedestrians, or even eliminate them all together.

A prototype of the 2020 Lincoln Corsair undergoing testing

Despite these updates to the 2019 Lincoln MKC, the model is on its way out. The current model debuted in 2015 and will be replaced by the Lincoln Corsair for the 2020 model year, which looks a lot like a mini Aviator.