2015 Lincoln MKC Video, First Look

Lincoln is diving into a new segment with the second of four products that are meant to reinvent the brand, the MKC, which is based on the Ford Escape and will be company’s first compact crossover.

At launch, two EcoBoost engines will be the only options for power, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder doing duty as the base motor while a 2.3-liter four-cylinder will be available. The smaller motor makes 240 hp and 270 lb-ft while the larger option puts out 275 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. Base models will be front-wheel drive with 18-inch wheels, while upgraded models can be had with all-wheel drive and 19- or 20-inch wheels.

The MKC gets Lincoln’s split-wing grille up front and a new wrap-around tailgate in the rear. On the inside, new designs can be found in the instrument cluster and on the center stack, while the steering wheel is also all new.

Three drive modes are available through Lincoln Drive Control, a system that uses Continuously Controlled Damping to adapt to road conditions. Drivers can choose from Sport, Normal or Comfort, depending on preference.

A new app has also been put together by Lincoln, and will launch in the MKC. It allows drivers to program preset start and stop times for the engine, find their car when it is parked and even monitor the car’s stats such as fuel levels.

Finally, a new system called approach detection has been designed for the MKC, a setup which will make the headlights, taillights and door handle lights glow softly as a welcome when the driver approaches. A welcome mat featuring the Lincoln logo will also be projected onto the ground in front of the driver’s door.

The 2015 Lincoln MKC will have a starting price of $35,995.

Check out our first look video below for more details.