What’s New in the 2020 Lincoln Corsair?
In an attempt to better connect with buyers, Lincoln is in the process of retiring its three-letter model names in favor of model names that better reflect the luxury market that Lincoln targets. The 2020 Lincoln Corsair is the latest step in that plan, serving as a replacement for the similarly sized MKC. Rather than simply changing the name, though, Lincoln has essentially launched a new SUV. In the process, Lincoln has made changes to every aspect of the second best-selling SUV that it produces.
With a starting MSRP of $35,945, the 2020 Lincoln Corsair stands to appeal to a wide market of customers who enjoy SUVs in this size range.
Performance Specs
Although the Corsair is Lincoln’s smallest SUV, there is plenty of power packed in a small package. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine pumps out 250 horsepower, while the 2.3-liter engine, available on the Reserve trim, cruises along with 295 horsepower. Each engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that can be manually shifted using steering wheel-mounted paddles. Both the Standard and Reserve trims feature standard front-wheel-drive, with an optional Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive system available on either model.
Thanks to the Corsair’s light weight, you’ll find that the acceleration is more than adequate. In 6.1 seconds or less, you’ll be cruising at 60 mph, which is perfect when you’re accelerating into traffic or simply going for a joy ride.
Another component that aids in the Corsair’s impressive performance is its 74.3-inch width. This wide stance allows for better handling and maneuverability. Therefore, you can enjoy exceptional control alongside all that power.
Fuel Efficiency
No matter how you outfit the 2020 Lincoln Corsair, the fuel economy remains largely the same. The Corsair is rated to achieve 29 mpg on the highway, while city driving will see you at 22 mpg. Thanks to the well-tuned eight-speed transmission, the fuel economy is essentially the same whether you choose the large 2.3-liter engine or the standard 2.0-liter powerplant. In fact, you only lose one mpg for both city and highway ratings if you opt for the extra power.
Contributing to the exceptional fuel economy of the Corsair is its five selectable driving modes. Though the names might leave you a little confused, the modes — which include Normal, Excite, Conserve, Slippery, and Deep Conditions — are all well-tuned to help the Corsair conserve fuel whenever possible. Largely, this is done by electronically changing the transmission response to favor more efficient gears for the Conserve mode, while encouraging faster acceleration and shifting in Excite mode.
Safety Features
Earning a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, the Lincoln Corsair proves that it doesn’t crack under pressure. Failing to receive a Top Safety Pick+ award only because of its headlight scores, the Corsair demonstrates itself to be safe with both accident avoidance and crash protection features. The Lincoln Corsair features a full suite of airbags, including front and rear head airbags and front side airbags.
Where the Corsair really shines is through its generous array of standard crash avoidance technologies. These technologies, collectively, are known as Lincoln Co-Pilot 360. The systems work together to offer 360-degrees of active monitoring.
The BLIS Blind Spot Detection with Cross-Traffic Alert uses radar to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you to their presence if you try to change lanes while they’re there. The other components in the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 are Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Lane-Keeping System, a rear-view camera, and auto high-beam headlights.
Beyond these standard features, there is a host of other standard and available crash avoidance features on the 2020 Lincoln Corsair.
Entertainment Features
There are numerous entertainment features integrated into the Lincoln Corsair that will help give you and your passengers a pleasant experience on the road. When it comes to sound, the Lincoln Corsair offers a 10-speaker sound system on the Standard trim and a 14-speaker sound system on the Reserve trim. Both models offer a subwoofer to provide the deep, rich sound that you expect from a luxury SUV.
All Corsairs are equipped with satellite radio and a USB port to keep your devices charged. The Reserve models add a speed-sensitive volume control, Revel premium speakers, and volume controls for rear-seat passengers.
If you have a device that’s capable of wireless charging, the Corsair offers a hidden wireless charging mat to make charging easy.
Pros and Cons
Though there is plenty to love about the 2020 Lincoln Corsair, it does have some drawbacks that you’ll want to consider.
Pros
- There are plenty of features on the base model, including the powerful and fuel-efficient 2.0-liter engine.
- Quiet cabin, as is expected in Lincoln vehicles.
- Excellent sound system on the base model that can be upgraded to be even better.
- Superb safety systems and generous standard crash avoidance features.
Cons
- The upper trim level may be more expensive than people are willing to spend on an SUV.
- Vehicle handling is uninspiring.
- The infotainment screen could be larger, especially given the numerous options for customization that are accessed using the screen
Is It Worth It?
Thanks to its updated styling, peppy engines, and impressive safety features, the 2020 Lincoln Corsair is a worthy replacement to the outgoing MKC.
If you are looking for a compact SUV in the luxury segment, the Corsair is certainly worth your consideration. Whether you choose the base model or the top-of-the-line Reserve II option package, you’ll experience a capable SUV that will provide confidence and fun for trips both long and short.