Built on the same platform as the Ford Escape, the 2019 Lincoln MKC may share a similar size and structure but the performance and luxury elevates the MKC to another level. Instead of a full redesign, the 2019 MKC sees a mid-cycle refresh for this year, which updates the grille in keeping with the rest of the lineup as well as some minor exterior cosmetic touches, some added driver safety features and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features.
ELEGANT EXTERIOR
New for the 2019 Lincoln MKC is the modern grille that brings the design language into consistency with the rest of the Lincoln lineup. The sleek grille fits nicely into the curves and lines of the front end, giving the overall look a modern yet elegant feel. The beefy front end hints at some power lurking beneath the hood, while the accent lines, chrome trim and narrow headlights and fog lights all come together into a refined appearance.
While most of the cosmetic exterior updates of the 2019 MKC are seen on the front end, the rear end still brings together the design and reaffirms the Lincoln design language with the full width tail light, dual exhaust and Lincoln badging.
Overall, while the MKC is a smaller vehicle, the beefy design gives it some road presence while at the same time having many smooth lines to please the eyes.
LUXURIOUS INTERIOR
The quiet and luxurious interior of the 2019 Lincoln MKC is bright and inviting. The interior surrounds you with high quality materials, plush yet supportive leather seats and a host of driving technology. The active noise control really helps to keep the interior quiet and relaxed at all speeds. The quite interior combined with the adjustable leather seats really keeps passenger feeling comfortable.
While it is a bit of a snug interior, the smaller space does come with the category of compact crossover. Lincoln has managed to make the interior as ergonomic as possible with a great balance of storage and holders to passenger space. The button selector transmission helps to free up space in the center console area to allow more room for cups and other storage pockets.
The well laid out dash of the 2019 MKC is inviting and easy to navigate. The touch screen controls most of the features, but there are also a few sleek and futuristic buttons and dials below to control the air and seat climates. New for 2019 is the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features, which allow phones to be connected and project select apps onto the main display.
The Waze app is one such example that works with Android Auto to project the app onto the display and it takes navigation to another level with many options and features to tailor the route and navigation experience to a specific user. The app provides options for best routes for taxis, motocycles, electric cars or regular vehicles as well as up to date traffic information that reroutes the navigation to keep your journey as fast and efficient as possible. Waze also integrates into many other social media platforms, so if you have an upcoming Facebook event for example, it can direct you there without having to pull up the event and enter the details.
Another handy app for the 2019 Lincoln MKC is Lincoln Way app which extends the functionality of your MKC via your mobile device. Owners who link the app with their MKC can start the vehicle, lock or unlock the doors, use the GPS to find their vehicle, and schedule remote engine starts with climate control. Owners can also use the Lincoln Concierge feature to schedule a pickup or drop off of their vehicle for service or find and reserve parking.
SMOOTH, QUIET DRIVE
Getting ready to drive the 2019 Lincoln MKC is a bit of a different experience, starting off with the push button ignition being the top button in the gear selection button column. It kind of makes sense though, as far as the order of operations for driving goes.
Two engine options are available to power the 2019 Lincoln MKC. Both models come equipped starting with the 2.0L turbocharged engine that outputs 245hp and is more than sufficient to power the MKC and provide a smooth and comfortable ride. Optionally, you can step up to the 2.3L twin-scroll turbo charged engine which outputs 285hp and has a significantly faster acceleration for a true performance experience. All models come with the six speed transmission which gets the job done, but might be better off with a more modern 8 speed transmission. Driving the 2019 Lincoln MKC feels refined and classy, as the intelligent AWD system shuttles a good amount of power precisely where and when needed through the wheels.
Once on the road driving, the 2019 MKC is constantly adapting to the conditions using various onboard sensors to determine the perfect blend of suspension and steering. The adaptive suspension uses a combination of sensors to monitor and adjust on the fly. You can also select the drive mode which each provide a distinct driving experience (comfort, normal or sport). The electric power-assisted steering also automatically adjusts to provide a easy, more relaxed steering feel at low speeds and a firmer, more controlled feel at higher speeds.
A potentially handy safety feature comes in the form of Roll Stability Control (RSC), which improves control in slippery conditions and constantly monitors roll rate and vehicle roll motion to determine how and when to apply brakes to ensure all wheels stay firmly planted on the road.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 2019 MKC is Lincoln’s entry level SUV in a line up ranging from the compact crossover MKC to the full sized Lincoln Navigator. If you don’t need the space, you get pretty much everything else from convenience and luxury in the interior, to the power and performance of the driving experience. Buying is made easy with only two models to choose from with the entry level Select model starting at $42,900.
