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2020 Lincoln Corsair Review: 6 Things You Need To Know

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As part of Lincoln's plan to rejuvenate the brand, they have introduced the Corsair which is their smallest SUV and takes aim at other small luxury crossovers like the Audi Q3 and Lexus UX. Although, a case could also be made for comparison with the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 from a size perspective. With this being an ever-growing segment, it's likely the Corsair could become Lincoln's best selling vehicle. Keeping that in mind, the designers and engineers needed to ensure the Corsair would be well-built and luxurious without breaking the bank. 

Pricing

Lincoln was able to deliver on design and overall quality, but when it comes to pricing, the Corsair is well... Pricy, the standard model costs a cool $35,945, while the AWD version is $41,185. To put that into perspective, the Lexus UX starts at $32,300, Volvo XC40, $33,700 and the Audi Q3 $34,700. 

Start adding options and you can reach the $50,000 mark with ease, add all of the options and you're at $60,000. Granted that does include a lot of technology like a 360-degree view camera, adaptive suspension, adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, lane centering, stop-and-go, and speed sign recognition plus a well designed 12.3” digital instrument cluster and perfect position 24-way seats, amongst many others. 

Satisfying Exterior Design

The Corsair benefits from Lincoln's new design language which focuses on a stately profile with stamped side body panels, rounded corners, wraparound rear LED lighting and jeweled front headlamps, completed by sharp LED daytime running lights and a Lincoln logo cutout grille. 

While everyone has a different opinion on what looks good, there's no doubt the Corsair has a charming profile and well-styled exterior.

Powertrain

There are two different powertrains available on the Corsair which is a nice touch as most vehicles in this segment only offer one. Both are turbocharged I-4s with the standard 2.0-liter offering 250 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque. I found it to be adequate, but I'm a fan of quick acceleration, so I'd option up the available 2.3-liter with 295 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. 

Both engines are mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission which could stand to be improved. It lacks the quick smooth response rivals offer, especially the Audi Q3. 

The engines themselves are refined and with the larger 2.3-liter offering up 295 horsepower, it gives you plenty of go-power when you demand it with an estimated 0-60 time of 6.2 seconds. Plenty quick for a vehicle in this segment. 

Ride Quality

If I had to pick one thing about the Corsair which it executes peculiarly well, it would be the ride quality. It's very smooth and incredibly quiet in the cabin at any speed. This is achieved in part by a Lincoln-first rear integral bush suspension, which directly absorbs impacts that would otherwise be felt in the cabin.

Additionally, the engineers added an extra layer of sound denting behind the engine allowing for an impeccably quiet ride. When comparing ride quality to others in the segment, the Corsair comes out ahead. 

Optional Revel Sound System 

One option I recommend is the 14-speaker Revel premium audio system, which has been tuned specifically for the Corsair. It offers deep bass, clear vocals and clarity across all volume levels. I've been quite impressed with Revel systems in Lincoln products lately and even at this lower price point, Revel was still able to produce a great sounding system.

Interior Options Galore

The interior makes a splash with an open airy feel that has an aviation sensation to it. Much like the Aviator, the Corsair features a waterfall dash design that utilizes high-grade metal and leather. It's also available in five unique interior combinations including my favorite, Ebony/Cashew.  

While I enjoy the design of the interior and the quality of the dashboard, the door panel and glovebox leave something to be desired as they are covered in cheap-looking hard plastic. While the door panel does offer soft leather where you rest your arm, the area above that to the window is covered in harsh looking plastic, which brings down the otherwise elevated feeling of the interior. 

Final Thoughts

The Corsair is a solid new vehicle from Lincoln and I'm happy to see it replace the aging MKC. If you don't go crazy with options and keep it to FWD, it becomes a good value if you're looking for a luxury crossover that focuses on space, quiet driving dynamics, and a potent engine.