The Latin word for Corsair is “cursus,” which means “journey.” And the entry-level luxury SUV in the Lincoln roster offers just that and more – exceptional handling and balance, quick acceleration and remarkably good body control. Replacing the MKC last year, the compact Corsair is available as a front-wheel or an all-wheel drive, which was our test for a week.
The five-passenger SUV comes in a 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled inline-4 cylinder engine that puts out 250 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 pounds-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. That is plenty for the 3,842-pound vehicle to scoot from any speed. The eight-speed auto gear box is effortless.
A split-winged grille with the centered Lincoln emblem plays host to floating chrome ovals in a black lattice background. The rear shows off full-width horizontal tail lamps joined by a LED tail lamp strip, roof spoiler and dual-exhaust tips, to convey a powerful stance. But it is in the lavish, modish and beautifully made cabin that the Corsair justly shines. As soon as you take a seat, the floating center stack with knobs for audio and temperature controls catches your attention. The push-button gear selector may take some getting used to, but it saves space on the dash.
The user-friendly Sync3, an interface to control audio, phone and navigation systems via voice, touch or both, is easy to use. Passenger and cargo room is plenty with 27.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 57/6 cubic feet behind the first row. Dual-zone auto a/c, three-spoke power leather steering wheel, panoramic roof, Revel audio with 14 speakers, 10-way power front seats, 60/40 flat second-row bench, hands-free lift gate and the Lincoln welcome/farewell light elements when you enter or exit are standard.
Dual front and side airbags, front knee airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic stability and traction control, lane-keep and pre-collision assists, reverse park aid, rearview camera, blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert, front and rear three-point seatbelts, tire pressure monitor and daytime running lights.
Undoubtedly, the Corsair is a welcome replacement for the outgoing MKC. Indulge yourself and the passengers in this most affordable, remarkably smooth and exceptionally quiet Lincoln. Plus, it is attractive to the eye inside and out.
CORSAIR (RESERVE)
Tires: P225/55R19
Wheelbase: 106.7 inches
Length: 180.6 inches
Width: 76.2 inches
Height: 64.1 inches
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, multilink rear
Steering: electric power
Fuel capacity: 16.2 gallons
City: 21 mpg
Highway: 29 mpg
Base price: $45,090
Price as tested: $56,780
Web site: www.lincoln.com
Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.