The 2020 Lincoln Corsair is all-new, with a new name, new underpinnings and a load of new tech. It replaced the MKC in Lincoln’s crossover lineup and rides on a shared platform with the also-new-for-2020 Ford Escape. Though it’s the brand’s entry-level crossover, the Corsair offers refined style, ride-quality worthy of the Lincoln name, and more tech than its predecessor.

 New for 2020, the Corsair is Lincoln’s smallest vehicle. It replaces the MKC in the lineup.  Lincoln

The Corsair is offered in two trim levels for the 2020 model year: Standard and Reserve. Both trims come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Reserve trim is available with a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four-cylinder that makes 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both engines come paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard models come with front-wheel drive but are available with all-wheel drive; the Reserve trim comes standard with all-wheel drive.

Though it’s Lincoln’s smallest crossover, it’s still a luxury vehicle through and through. Its Ford Escape underpinnings don’t embarrass the Corsair, and the interior remains mostly quiet, isolating passengers from most of the outside world’s worries. The standard turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine is more than adequate for the Corsair’s modest size. Far from brisk, it won’t leave most drivers wanting for more power.

 Standard features include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power front seats, two quick-charging USB ports, a 10-speaker audio system, and more.  Lincoln

The uprated turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder spices things up considerably. Although it seems like an incremental increase on paper, the increased kick provided by the turbo 2.3 feels is palpable. Its 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque provide ample acceleration to propel the Corsair through traffic and up to highway speeds with impressive swiftness. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a good match for both engines and wastes little time selecting the proper gear to maximize the engine’s power bands. Both powertrains are tow-rated for up to 3000 pounds, but drivers that tow frequently will be better served by the Aviator or Navigator. 

Inside, the Corsair lives up to its brand name and its price tag with upscale finishes and excellent build quality. Soft-touch materials, soft leathers and beautiful color combinations work to create a premium feel and luxurious experience. The front seats are comfortable and supportive and have a high degree of adjustability that allows for a comfortable position for nearly any size person. Handsome strips of wood and metal accent the dash creating an attractive sightline. The center control stack is mounted on a floating panel below the infotainment screen and air vents, which gives it a unique and futuristic look. The infotainment screens prominent dash-top location is convenient but seems almost an afterthought given the otherwise high level of interior integration. 

The rear passenger compartment is inviting but can’t compensate for the tight quarters dictated by the Corsair’s small footprint and is best reserved for children or short trips.  Lincoln 

The Corsair’s back seat is small but inviting. There’s enough head and legroom to accommodate most adults, though the crossover’s sloping roof reduces headroom for taller passengers. The rear seat slides and is reclinable to a degree, so there are a few options to find a better position. Parents will discover large door openings that are squared off, which makes car seat loading much less of a chore. 

The Corsair closely follows the design language of its’ larger brother, the Aviator.  Becoming Lincoln 

The 2020 Corsair was awarded a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, earning Good scores in all crashworthiness categories. That’s an upgrade over its predecessor, the MKC, which received Good ratings but missed Top Safety Pick recognition. Every Corsair comes with Lincoln Co-Pilot360, which brings blind spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alerts, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, a rearview camera and automatic high beam headlights. Adaptive cruise control is part of the optional Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Plus package.

As with most luxury compact crossovers, the base price is just the point of entry. Even a cursory look at the options sheet can ramp up the Corsairs’ approximately $37,595 base MSRP in just minutes. As with the larger Lincolns, the Corsair offers a panoramic glass roof, a Revel audio system, and adaptive suspension, 24-way adjustable front seats and numerous other niceties.  

Making a small car look upscale and elegant without becoming ostentatious is a difficult task. Lincoln does a commendable job in this respect.   Lincoln

While the Corsair is every bit a Lincoln and brings most of what we expect from a premium crossover to the table, its price tag puts it in head-to-head competition with a host of vehicles that could be a better fit for many drivers. The Acura RDX is sportier, the Lexus NX offers adventurous styling, and the BMW X3 is a sporty option with a solid turbocharged powertrain. The Corsair has no glaring faults, but the luxury compact crossover segment is one of the most fiercely contested.