2020 Lincoln Corsair

Available in two trims, you can get the 2020 Lincoln Corsair either as the base or the reserve at a starting price of $35,945 and $42,630 respectively. Both the trims are front-wheel drive, but an extra premium of $2200 opens the doors to all-wheel drive. On the power front, both models retain the MKC’s 250 hp 2.0 liter turbocharged inline- 4 engine. However, stepping up to the Reserve does uncover the $1140 optional 2.3-liter turbo that pumps 295 horses and is available only with all-wheel drive.

Trims	Base (4dr SUV)	Reserve
MSRP (FWD)	$35,945	$42,630
MSRP (AWD)	$38,145	$44,830
Features	Pre and post-collision safety system	Adds these to Base  -
	Daytime running lights	Turn signal on ORVMs
	Dusk sensing LED headlamps	front fog/driving lights
	Audio system with satellite radio and 10 speakers	14 speaker Revel premium audio
	Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel	Universal remote transmitter
	Rear parking sensors	Head-Up Display
	Leatherette interiors	Premium leather upholstery
	18-inch alloy wheels	19-inch alloy wheels
	8- way power and heated front seats
	Reclining rear seats
	Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
	Blindspot and lane departure warnings accident avoidance system

What do we recommend?

We suggest picking up the all-wheel-drive reserve paired with the 2.3 turbo, which seeks a premium of $44,830. At the price, you get Lincoln’s full-fledged luxury hospitality with most of the advanced creature comforts on board. Above all, you also have a more powerful and punchy engine at your disposal.

Both the turbo engines on offer, the 2.0 liter and 2.3 liter might remind of the Ford Escape and Mustang respectively, but their engagement in the Corsair is very different. Both the engines crank out an ample amount of power and torque if not outrageous, to pull the 3700 lbs body. However, there is barely any noticeable change of character between the two engines, but the 2.3-liter turbo would make much sense to you if you are familiar with Lincoln’s new ‘Excite” mode.

Models	Lincoln Corsair Base	BMW X3 sDrive30i	Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum	Mercedes GLC 300 4dr SUV	Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI Premium Quattro
MSRP	$35,945	$41,950	$40,150	$42,500	43,300
Engine	2.0 Liter I-4	2.0 Liter I-4	2.0 Liter I-4	2.0 Liter I-4	2.0 Liter I-4
Transmission	8-speed shiftable automatic	8-speed shiftable automatic	8-speed shiftable automatic	9-speed shiftable automatic	7-speed automated manual
Horsepower (hp)	250	248	250	255	248
Torque	280 ft-lbs	258 ft-lbs	258 ft-lbs	273	273

Communication between the engine and the wheels is monitored by a new 8- speed automatic transmission in both the engines. Power delivery is smooth and linear except for the slight hint of lag down the lower rpm range. The optional paddle shifter adds some fun for driving enthusiasts and is quick in its business, although it is not as refined and as precise as the Audi Q5.

How fast is the Lincoln Corsair?

Outright acceleration is not the Corsair’s strong suit. With a 0-60 miles time of 7.3 seconds, with the 2.0-liter engine, the Lincoln Corsair is certainly not exhilarating, but it's fairly livable with respect to its modest character. With the 2.3 liter optional powertrain that also adds up 70 lbs to the weight, the Corsair races from 0-60, 10% quicker than the standard engine.

What's disappointing though is the fact that even with a new transmission, better dynamics and a 100 lbs lighter body, the Corsair posted similar numbers on the acceleration test-sheet to those of the outgoing MKC.

Models	Lincoln Corsair Base	BMW X3 sDrive30i	Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum	Mercedes GLC 300 4dr SUV	Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI Premium Quattro
0-60 MPH	7.3 seconds	6.3 seconds	6.4 seconds	6.1 seconds	5.9
Quarter mile	15.6 seconds	15.1 seconds	NA	NA	14.5
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15k mi/yr)	7.1	6.8	7.4	7.4	7.4

All the other crossovers in the competition post better 0-60 figures than the Lincoln Corsair with the Q5 sitting on top with an impressive 5.9 seconds. A more efficient all-wheel-drive mechanism compared to the Corsair’s slacky disconnecting all-wheel drive, more refined engine and a proficient transmission is what makes the Europeans snappier than the Corsair.

How good are its Handling manners?

It's the ride quality where the 2020 Lincoln Corsair aces ahead of its competition and uncovers its potent intentions. Be it a busy downtown street or a curvy mountain road, this baby Lincoln floats over them all with the suspension soaking up everything coming under the wheels. You can upgrade to the $700 optional adaptive dampers but barely is their any insistence. That's how good the union of the stock returned struts at the front and revised multi-link suspension at the rear is. 

What impresses the most about the Lincoln Corsair is its tranquility. A host of sound- deadening elements like sound-attenuating windshield and front side glass, plenty of acoustic insulation, active noise cancellation and an insulated firewall between the engine and passenger compartment, absorb the engine and road noise excellently well. Synonymizing the Corsair as a compact luxury sensory deprivation chamber on wheels, wouldn't go wrong. 

In terms of handling, the Corsair is not as delightful as the BMW X3 or Volvo XC60, but the deficiency is very well compensated by its astounding ride quality. The electrically assisted steering is not among the most communicative, but it does its job quite precisely. The available optional Lincoln Co-pilot 360 and the Evasive steering assist do add to the overall stability and help keep the body roll under check.

However, the 2020 Lincoln Corsair is not among the happiest vehicles around corners. Flick the steering wheel on a turn, even at slow speeds and the Corsair’s almost 3700 lbs weight gets noticeable and so does the significant understeer.

What about the Braking performance?

As far as the braking is concerned, we did not have the chance to dig deeper into it but since the 2020 Corsair shares most of its components with the Escape and the MKC, we assume that the braking set-up too is borrowed from its cousins.

If the presumptions strike the right chord, the Corsair must wear 13.2-inch discs at the front and 12.4 at the rear accompanied by ABS in all four corners.

Models	Lincoln Corsair Base	BMW X3 sDrive30i	Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum	Mercedes GLC 300 4dr SUV	Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI Premium Quattro
Brake Front (in.)	13.2 (est)	13.0	13.6	13.5	13.3
Brake Rear (in.)	12.4 (est)	13.0	12.6	12.6	13.0
60-0 MPH (ft)	126	127	NA	NA	136

The braking apparatus did not shatter our expectations of enhanced stopping power since the new Corsair has a lighter body than its predecessor. The firm brake pedal pinches the Corsair’s momentum hard and is very resolute about its job. The 2020 Lincoln Corsair’s braking distance of 126 feet from 60-0 is almost similar to that of the Beemer and better than the Audi’s.

With a lighter body and improved ergonomics than its predecessor, the 2020 Lincoln Corsair also promises better fuel efficiency than the MKC, adding some extra miles per gallon with either of the engines. The Corsair’s 25 mpg combined with the 2.0 liter and 24 with the 2.3 liter doesn't give much scope of complaint for its class. The intelligent all-wheel drive that is essentially tuned for all-weather competence instead of off-road business, allows disconnecting power supply to the rear wheels if not needed for traction, to further enhance the Corsair’s mpg output.

Models	Lincoln Corsair Base	BMW X3 sDrive30i	Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum	Mercedes GLC 300 4dr SUV	Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI Premium Quattro
MPG (city)	22	25	22	22	22
MPG (highway)	29	29	29	29	27
MPG (combined)	25	27	24	24	24

Among the competition, the XC60, GLC and the Q5 deliver similar mpg figures to that of the Corsair. However, the front-wheel-drive BMW X3 sDrive30i benefiting from its polished powertrain stands one step ahead than the competition with its 27 mpg combined.

Where the 2020 Corsair has really taken a leap forward from its predecessor is the interior arrangement. Unlike the shoddy MKC, the interior of the Corsair is drenched in leather, wood and aluminum inserts. The dashboard, steering wheel, door panels, and even the center console, everything is soaked in soft-touch leather. However, if your taste of luxury is a bit different than what Lincoln has to offer, you can order your Corsair with all those numerous inserts at the exact place you want them.

What further accentuates the interior vibe is the contrasting color schemes that Lincoln is offering with the Corsair, and each one of them works brilliantly with the interior. The elegant yet simplistic layout in the cabin too is picked up from the larger Lincoln’s and it looks very attractive and premium.

Models	Lincoln Corsair Base	BMW X3 sDrive30i	Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum	Mercedes GLC 300 4dr SUV	Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI Premium Quattro
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	39.5/57.1/43.2	41.1/57.6/40.3	38.0/58.2/41.5	37.8/57.3/40.8	41.7/57.7/41.0
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.7/56.3/38.6	39.1/56.0/36.4	38.0/56.3/38.0	38.5/56.5/37.3	39.3/56.5/37.8

The horizontal A.C vent running across the dash makes the interior feel wide and spacious, whereas a large sunroof and third-quarter side glass allow better visibility outside and also add-up to the airiness inside. The leather quilted seats on the front and the rear are very soft and comfortable and have plenty of space around.

The second row can be reclined and also has a travel of six degrees for better space. However, the dramatic roofline eats up some headroom at the rear bench and it might leave taller occupants wishing for better headroom. The standard 10-way adjustable front is very well cushioned and offers great comfort and support. However, for that extra sense of opulence, you can pack your Corsair with 24-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilated and massage functionality, heated steering wheel and a lot more.

How tech-laden is the Cabin?

Sitting atop the dashboard of the 2020 Corsair is an 8.0-inch touchscreen that acts as the central infotainment hub. Standard across all trims, the Sync 3 infotainment features Apple Carplay, Android Auto and smartphone integration. Pouring in some optional dollars into the standard Corsair or upgrading to the Reserve trim unlocks a Head-up display, 14-speakers revel premium audio, wireless charging, a wi-fi hotspot and a full suite of Lincoln Co-pilot 360 driver assistance systems.

The sharp and responsive touch screen might be on the smaller side compared to modern standards but it has a clean interface and is hassle-free to operate. The Infotainment screen itself is in command of most of the settings and features in the Corsair, but for the easy-goers, there is also a full stack of piano black and aluminum finished physical buttons embedded in the waterfall design floating centerpiece that looks gorgeous. Apart from the infotainment touchscreen, on offer also is a 12.3 inch drivers display which assists the driver with a multitude of information right behind the steering wheel.

What about the Cargo hauling capacity?

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair’s grown-up dimensions and the redesigned body open up a more generous boot space at the rear than its predecessor.

The new compact Lincoln’s cargo space of 27.6 cu-ft is 2.4 cu-ft larger than the MKC and better than the GLC and the Q5 but falls marginally shorter to the X3 and the XC60. Just like every other crossover, the rear seats can be folded down to free up extra space for some additional stuff.

Models	Lincoln Corsair Base	BMW X3 sDrive30i	Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum	Mercedes GLC 300 4dr SUV	Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI Premium Quattro
Cargo Volume (cu.-ft)	27.6	28.7	29.7	19.4	25.1

Among the competition, it's the Volvo XC60 which is the most benevolent in terms of cargo compartment with a 29.7 cu-ft of area behind the second row. The XC60’s longer, wider and higher proportions and Volvo’s beautiful engineering is what lends the XC60 such a lavish trunk.

What are the most notable features on the inside?

• Leather upholstery
• Panoramic sunroof
• Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel
• Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
• Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
• Interior air filtration
• Head- up display
• Reclining and split-folding rear seats
• 24- way power front seats with heated, ventilated and massage feature

On the outside, the 2020 Lincoln Corsair looks absolutely striking. The grown up dimensions over the MKC, give it a strong and mature visual presence and the signature design cues from its larger siblings make it instantly recognizable as a Lincoln. To be precise, the Corsair looks a lot more like a toned down Aviator, than a redesigned MKC.

Be it the confluence of the signature LED headlamps and the bold Lincoln grille up front, horizontally stashed LED tail lamps integrated by a chrome strip and the chrome Lincoln badging at the rear or the redesigned side glasses that highlight the sloped roofline, the Corsair reminds you of its elder brother from every angle.

Models	Lincoln Corsair Base	BMW X3 sDrive30i	Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum	Mercedes GLC 300 4dr SUV	Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI Premium Quattro
Length (in)	180.6	185.9	184.6	183.3	183.6
Width (in)	76.2	74.4	78.7	74.8	74.5
Height (in)	64.1	66.0	65.3	64.7	65.3
Ground clearance (in)	7.8	8.0	8.5	5.9	8.2
Wheelbase (in)	106.7	112.8	112.8	113.1	111.0
Track width (in) F/R	62.6/63.4	63.1/63.9	65.1/65.2	63.9/63.7	63.6/63.3
Curb weight (lbs)	3691	3931	4105	3889	4057

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair is undoubtedly one of the best looking compact crossovers in the market. It is compact in its proportions for sure, but what sets it apart is how beautifully it has been designed. 1.4 inches of added length to the MKC and enwrapped with an Aviator like exterior sheet, the Corsair looks more grown-up and complete than its rivals. 

Exterior features

• Turn signal mirrors
• Daytime running lights
• Front fog/driving lights
• hands-free entry
• Heated mirrors
• Locking Wheel Lug Nuts
• Rear spoiler

Lincoln as a brand has always been very concerned about the tech and safety packaging in its products. We are quite used to seeing Lincoln vehicles with most of the modern safety gadgets and their new up-gradation methodology has taken the safety measure to the next level. To say the least, the new Lincoln Corsair is packed with most of the advanced safety features available within the segment like Pre and Post-collision safety systems, Emergency Braking Assist, Rear parking sensors with rearview camera, Blind Spot and Lane Departure Warnings Accident Avoidance System and many more.

Safety Features

• Engine immobilizer
• Stability control
• Remote anti-theft alarm system
• Pre and Post-collision safety system
• Emergency braking assist
• Blindspot and lane departure warnings accident avoidance system
• Ventilated front disc / solid rear disc brakes
• Rear parking sensors with rearview camera
• 4-wheel ABS
• Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
• Child seat anchors
• Dual front side-mounted airbags
• Front and rear head airbags

Lincoln Corsair vs BMW X3

The BMW X3 is a very strong contender in its segment. However, full-packed Lincoln gives the X3 a very right run. Both cars have a very distinct character of their own. The Corsair has a more powerful and punchier engine than the X3, but the German races ahead with its joyful ride quality, especially around corners. The X3’s more balanced ergonomics, efficient transmission and talkative steering make it more fun to drive machine than the Lincoln and it is more fuel-efficient than the Corsair and has a larger cargo bay as well.

However, the Lincoln Corsair bounces back at the X3 on various aspects. The Corsair has a silent and much premium ride quality than the X3, its comparatively smaller dimensions make it very easy to maneuver around traffic and parking lots, it has better room around both the benches, is more advanced in terms of technology and features and last but not the least, you do get a better warranty and reliability with the Lincoln.

Lincoln Corsair vs Volvo XC60

Both the crossovers share a very similar formula. Keep it clean, keep it smart. However, in a stand-off, the Corsair seems to be more precise and accurate with the formula. The Volvo might have larger proportions and a larger boot than the Corsair, but the baby Lincoln topples the Scandinavian offering in the segment on almost every other parameter.

The Lincoln Corsair is roomy on the inside and has better room around the seats, has better warranty, reliability, and ease of service. With its compact dimensions and running on coil springs, the Lincoln Corsair also offers better ride and handling than the Volvo. Apart from these the new baby Lincoln is also ahead than the XC60 in terms of tech features and of course with a plethora of advanced equipment.

Lincoln Corsair vs Mercedes GLC

The new redesigned 2020 Mercedes GLC is a very impressive and complete product. It looks exquisite, is well behaved on the roads, is aptly loaded with tech stuff and also features the widely acclaimed MBUX infotainment system. However, even with its fair competency, the Merc trails behind the Corsair when compared together. It's only the Merc’ driving pleasure and schooled cornerings because of its smoother transmission and a dynamic all-wheel drive, that outshines the Corsair.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair’s thoughtful yet efficient wholesome packaging easily washes out the Merc’s efforts. The Corsair offers a better ride quality, more interior space, a much larger trunk, better maneuverability, extensive list of features, better maneuverability and enhanced warranty.

Lincoln Corsair vs Audi Q5

Audi’s global best-seller, the Q5 is perhaps the strongest competitor to the Lincoln Corsair. The Q5’s balanced suspension set-up, well-mannered road behavior, athletic handling, and precise steering are some of the reasons why it has been generating great volumes for Audi.

However, when compared to the 2020 Lincoln Corsair, the Audi Q5’s balanced composition does not feel as valuable as the Corsair. The Corsair tosses the Q5 in the same way as it did to the other three Europeans.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair is the new talk of the Luxury compact crossover town. With its ultra-luxury quotient, brilliant ride quality, beautifully crafted interiors on a shorter wheelbase and tons of available technology presents a composition that no other product in the segment can dare to challenge, at least at the moment. If you are looking for a complete luxury compact crossover where the term complete has a wider broadband for you, the 2020 Lincoln Corsair is just the machine you should stick to.