2018 Lincoln MKC

The 2018 Lincoln MKC is a five-passenger compact crossover. It comes in four trims: Premiere, Select, Reserve, and Black Label. Standard front-wheel drive, available all-wheel drive, and two engine choices give shoppers much to consider.

We think shoppers will prefer the Reserve, which comes with the standard engine, a power liftgate, a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column, 12-way power front seats, heated and cooled front seats, and blind-spot monitoring.

• Model: 2018 Lincoln MKC Reserve
• Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four
• Output: 245 hp / 275 lb-ft
• Transmission:Six-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Options: MKC Technology Package ($2,295, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with brake support, lane keeping assist, auto start/stop technology, active park assist).
• Base Price:$40,910 (including the $925 destination charge)
• Best Value Price:$43,205

The 2018 Lincoln MKC comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that makes 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. This engine sends power to the wheels by means of a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Lincoln MKC does not lack for power, regardless of the engine selected. The base engine is also available in the Ford Escape (on which this model is based), while the larger engine is exclusive to the MKC (and also used in the Mustang). Upgrading to the larger engine also means all-wheel drive, which makes sense with the added power sent to the wheels.

Ride and handling compare favorably to other models in the segment, including the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. The MKC’s sport setting seems firmer than what we’d prefer, while at the same time giving us the grip we want and with little lean of note.

Lincoln’s winged grille dominates the front fascia, a design that hasn’t been especially well received. At least the look seems more at home in the MKC than in other models. It's not too hard to see the resemblance to the Ford Escape with this model, but there's enough differentiation in body sculpting and lines to set the MKC apart.

Inside, the cabin shines with elegant and comfortable front seats, clean lines, and an uncluttered cabin. And then there is the push-button transmission control on the dashboard. It seems more gimmicky than anything else, although it does allow for some extra room up front. The rear seat is snug, no matter how you look at it. It offers seating for three, but two is more like it. Even then, youngsters fit comfortably, but not adults. If you prefer to fold the rear seat flat, cargo volume expands from 25.2 cubic feet to 53.1 cubic feet.

This little Lincoln crossover lives up to its name quite well, especially in the choice of interior materials used. The Black Label trim raises the luxury level further, but at a cost ($50,000) we think few are willing to bear.

The 2018 MKC doesn’t match the safety systems found in more modern models and that’s something more shoppers expect as they have their minds set on semi-autonomous driving.

If you want to make the move to the Lincoln brand, the MKC offers the lowest cost of all models with a starting price below $35,000. Of course, we think customers will want more features, therefore, a price of around $40,000 should do it.

The luxury SUV market is well represented by small crossovers from nearly every brand. If you’re looking for the most modern models, Mercedes-Benz and Audi have them. This doesn’t mean the MKC is dated, rather it's a half-step behind the pack.

Lincoln’s revival hinges on its entire product line, but great weight is placed on higher volume models, such as the MKC. Lincoln loads the 2018 MKC reasonably well, undercutting the German manufacturers, while staying in line with Acura and INFINITI.