Rivals: Audi Q3 and BMW X3

The Lincoln MKC, Lincoln's compact premium SUV, was previewed at the L.A. Auto Show, ahead of its production model unveiling at the Detroit Motor Show in January.LA Motor ShowCompared to the concept car shown at the Detroit Motor Show in January, the headlights, driving lamps, side sills, rear combination lights, and muffler area designs differ. This preview model at the L.A. Auto Show appears to be the final form of the vehicle that will be commercially available next summer as a 2015 model.



The Lincoln MKX, currently sold in Japan, shares its platform with the Ford Edge. In contrast, the Lincoln MKC will use the platform of the Ford Escape (Kuga in Japan)Escape (Kuga in Japan), and is scheduled to be produced at the familiar Louisville plant in the United States.

If the Lincoln MKX is considered a rival to the Audi Audi in the North American market, then the Audi Q5could be considered a rival to the Lincoln MKC. This might be the clearest way to convey its class positioning.Q3In the US, it falls into the category just below what is called a "mid-size luxury SUV," and rivals include the BMW BMW's X3 and X1, Mercedes-Benz's GLA, and the Range Rover Evoque.



For reference, the Lincoln MKX measures 4,740mm in length, 1,930mm in width, and 1,685mm in height (the Audi Q5 is 4,630mm long, 1,900mm wide, and 1,660mm high). The Lincoln MKC can be described as one size smaller than this. Although the Lincoln MKX appeared quite imposing at the show, lacking nearby comparison vehicles, this might be due to its assertive front grille and voluminous form.



Nevertheless, the exterior clearly differentiates the two models. While the Lincoln MKX has a rounded form with minimal front and rear overhangs, the Lincoln MKC has a lower stance and a sharp, dynamic appearance. The steeply raked windshield and slightly longer front overhang give it a decidedly sporty impression.

A High-Quality Interior Embodying American Luxury

The lineup is expected to include a front-wheel-drive model with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine and an all-wheel-drive model with a 2.3-liter inline-four EcoBoost engine producing 275 horsepower. Both will feature LED lighting front and rear. Similar to the Lincoln MKX, it also adopts an "Illuminated Entry System" that illuminates the area around the doors when the driver approaches, in the shape of the Lincoln emblem.



Particularly noteworthy are the interior design and high quality. The cabin, lavishly appointed with leather and wood, offers a chic yet exceptionally luxurious ambiance befitting a luxury model. Every touchpoint for the driver has been carefully considered, resulting in a pleasant finish. The precision of moving parts and the feel of the controls are impeccable, truly embodying American luxury.

The absence of a traditional shift lever, with gear selection for Drive and Reverse handled by switches on the center console, is a new approach for Lincoln. Furthermore, the center console features a newly designed monitor for the "MyLincoln Touch" infotainment system, allowing intuitive operation of phone, music, and navigation, contributing to a cleaner and more modern cockpit.

Currently, Lincoln's SUV lineup in Japan consists of the "Lincoln MKX" and "Lincoln Navigator." We eagerly anticipate the introduction of the "Lincoln MKC" as a third SUV model. In the Japanese market, where luxury SUVs are dominated by European brands, it would surely shine as a reminder that America was the birthplace of the luxury SUV.