2020 Lincoln Corsair

Pros: Quiet and comfortable cabin; sliding back seat creates generous rear legroom or extra cargo space; classy interior trim

Cons: Prices rise sharply with option packages; not as sporty or as spacious as some competitors

CG Says: Lincoln introduces an all-new compact SUV for 2020 that takes the place of the outgoing MKC in the brand’s model lineup. The Lincoln Corsair shares its basic platform with the redesigned-for-2020 Ford Escape, but adds the luxury design and trimmings expected of a Lincoln. Standard and Reserve trim levels are offered; the Reserve adds a number of features, such as upgraded interior trim, a hands-free liftgate, navigation system, and panoramic sunroof. The Corsair’s base engine is a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; a 295-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder is optional on Reserve models. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available for both models. A plug-in hybrid version named Grand Touring is slated to be added to the lineup for the 2021 model year.

Corsair’s standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Available features include adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability; evasive steering assist; active park assist; and Lincoln’s Phone As A Key technology, which enables vehicle unlocking, starting, and other functions to be performed via a smartphone app. The Lincoln Corsair carves out a spot for itself in the premium compact SUV segment by focusing more on “serenity” than athleticism and sportiness, in terms of both styling and driving character. Base prices are reasonable, but many desirable features are optional only on the Reserve trim, and the bottom line escalates quickly as options are added—indeed, one of our test Corsairs stickered at very close to $60K. A decked-out Corsair Reserve doesn’t strike us as a great value, but a more modestly equipped example is a compelling alternative to some of the aggressively styled premium-compact-SUV competitors.