Used 2019 Lincoln MKC Select SUV Review

The 2019 Lincoln MKC has a new grille that matches the one seen on brand's latest vehicles such as the Continental and Navigator. It's an improvement and gives the MKC a classier look. But the rest of the 2019 MKC is unchanged, which means it has some issues that prevent it from being a top contender in the premium crossover SUV segment.

Certainly, the MKC is a comfortable place for long drives thanks to its quiet interior, plentiful features and composed ride. Another high point is the Sync 3 infotainment system, which is easy to use and includes robust smartphone integration systems. But you might find the MKC's instrument panel design to be dated and not what you expect from a luxury SUV. Plus, interior space — in particular, the rear seat and cargo volume — are lacking for this class.

We also aren't overly impressed by the MKC's engines or availability of the latest driver safety aids. As such, the 2019 MKC just doesn't hold as much appeal as newer luxury SUV choices such as the Acura RDX and the BMW X3.

The 2019 Lincoln MKC is available in four trim levels. The base trim offers competitive technology features, while the Select trim adds more convenience features. The pricier Reserve and Black Label increase the luxury through additional standard features and exclusive interior designs.

Standard on all trims is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (245 horsepower, 275 pound-feet of torque) mated to a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional and comes bundled with adaptive suspension dampers. Also optional for the Reserve and the Black Label is a more powerful turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine (285 hp, 305 lb-ft). Picking this engine requires getting all-wheel drive.

Standard equipment highlights on the base MKC include 18-inch wheels, automatic LED headlights, a power liftgate, heated mirrors, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, keyless ignition and entry, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats, driver-seat memory functions, and a 60/40-split reclining and folding back seat.

Standard technology features include the Sync 3 infotainment interface, an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, Lincoln Connect with 4G LTE and a Wi-Fi hotspot, two USB ports, and a nine-speaker sound system with satellite radio.

The MKC Select includes auto-dimming and power-folding mirrors, a power-adjustable passenger seat, a power-adjustable steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, a cargo cover and upgraded leather upholstery. Options include a panoramic sunroof and the Select Plus package, which adds a navigation system and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert.

The MKC Reserve has those Select options plus a hands-free liftgate and ventilated front seats. Nineteen- and 20-inch wheels are also available.

The MKC Black Label adds to the Reserve equipment with 19-inch wheels, the adaptive suspension dampers, upgraded leather upholstery, extended leather interior trim, a simulated suede headliner, unique exterior and interior trim, and special color choices. The Black Label also comes with a few extra concierge-style perks.

Select, Reserve, and Black Label models can be equipped with a Climate package, which adds heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel, automatic high beams, automatic wipers and a wiper de-icer. An optional 14-speaker THX II sound system and a Technology package — which adds adaptive cruise control, a forward collision warning and mitigation system, lane departure warning and intervention, and an automatic parking system — are only available on the Reserve and the Black Label.