The next generation Ford Escape will spark the return of a hybrid version and a new Lincoln Corsair (aka MKC) with the same electrified technology.
In Lincoln’s continued efforts to remain relevant, they’re renaming and upgrading all their models. The MKC will thus be called the Corsair from 2020 on.
I was at the launch of the MKC in 2014 and at the time, according to Lincoln and Ford reps on hand, this compact luxury SUV was to bring good fortune and profits to the distinguished yet faltering American luxury brand. The Lincoln MKC never did…
With undying hope, Lincoln will re-invent its small SUV by baptising it Corsair and giving it a whole new outlook on life. Like the next-generation Ford Escape, it too will gain a hybrid and/or a plug-in hybrid version. It will also likely feature the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine for the entry-level models while the EcoBoost 2.3-litre will be reserved for the more expensive and sporty iterations.
The hybrids will combine a 2.5-liter inline-4 with a single electric motor. We suspect the electric motor will be installed on the rear axle to provide AWD capabilities without the necessary mechanical links between the front and rear wheels.
As of now, only the Lincoln MKZ remains sporting the old letter-only naming structure. Should a new MKZ ever arrive, we’re willing to bet a large double-double that it’ll regain its Zephyr roots.
As for the new Corsair, we doubt we’ll see anything at the New York Auto Show which means Los Angeles should be where we’ll see it in the flesh for the first time.
