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Lincoln MKC Crossover Concept Debut

Proof of new thinking? Lincoln has small crossover on the mind

Lincoln MKC Concept Front Three Quarter 2

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By Matthew Askari | January 10, 2013

What's New

The newly minted Lincoln Motor Co. is out to prove its reinvention is the real thing, and not a marketing gimmick. The new Lincoln MKC Concept makes its debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and makes Lincoln history as its smallest would-be offering. But the question remains, will the MKC be a dolled-up Ford Escape, or a truly unique vehicle? The MKC Concept bears several distinct Lincoln trademarks: a split-wing grille, a panoramic glass roof--a more conceptual version of the one on the 2013 Lincoln MKZ--wide taillights, a push-button shifter that is also on the MKZ, and several new unique features that could make it to production. Lincoln says the MKC Concept features personalized lighting, and a unique driver-recognition greeting, and driver-customized features. What won't see production daylight? A Champagne cooler, complete with two flutes.

Who It's For

Lincoln is playing to heavy momentum in the industry's fastest growing segment--the crossover. In the American luxury automakers two key markets--the U.S., and soon China, which it will enter next year--the crossover has seen exponential growth. Lincoln also hopes to appeal to a new "cultural progressive" buyer, one that is open to new experiences. Lincoln hopes to capture the newly affluent, and luxury buyers that might be looking to downsize. The MKC will compete against the Cadillac SRX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, and the Acura RDX.

Key Features

The MKC is a luxury crossover concept, and Lincoln's smallest would-be offering.

Distinct styling, Lincoln split-wing grille, 20-inch premium wheels, and a panoramic glass roof.
Tuned 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine a possibility, with a hybrid version available like the MKZ, possibly using the Ford C-Max technology.
Richly appointed, unique interior. Push button shifter, fashion-oriented packages with leather, "progressive combinations" and use of stitching and color.

What We Think

Lincoln is after the newly affluent, or luxury buyers looking to downsize. The MKC Concept, if it were to make it to production, would place Lincoln in the industry's fastest growing segment, and prime the automaker for future growth. Essential to Lincoln's success is differentiating itself from parent Ford. The MKZ was a good first step, and the MKC looks to offer a unique aesthetic and experience, one that the Ford Escape cannot. If Lincoln could successfully achieve that, the MKC could be a winner.

Back to Auto Show Coverage: Detroit 2013