Lincoln’s distinctive split grille will become part of history pretty soon. However, bearing in mind what’s going to take the place, we are not disappointed at all. Yes, Ford’s luxury division is getting a Continental-style grille, and the next “victim” will be the 2018 Lincoln MKC. No, the crossover won’t receive a complete redesign, because it’s too early for that. Instead, Lincoln’s fast-selling vehicle will undergo a mid-cycle refresh.
Even though the prototype hides its front and rear end, we are sure it’s going to borrow the grille from the Lincoln full-size sedan. However, that will be everything the SUV might have in common with the Continental. Other styling changes are coming from a different direction. As we have found out, the 2018 MKC will feature Navigator’s headlight and bumper and headlight treatment. Plus, the prototype already reveals the interesting wheel design also borrowed from the full-size SUV concept. In the rear, the vehicle appears to have just a new taillight design and nothing else. Interior wise, the 2018 Lincoln MKC will definitely get a refreshed dashboard and perhaps an updated version of the existing Sync 3 infotainment system. Of course, the overall impression will be enriched with new upholstery.
The 2018 MKC crossover won’t get anything new under the hood. However, the existing options might get a small bump. More precisely, the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost will be capable of producing around 250 hp, which are 10 additional horses over the current option. The topping 2.3-liter EcoBoost will also a bit more power. After the revamp, the engine will likely deliver 290 horsepower. In case you are expecting a new 10-speed transmission, we have to disappoint you, because that’s not going to happen at all. Instead, both options will be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
According to the latest reports, the refreshed crossover will be introduced at the 2018 Los Angeles auto show. If the carmaker decides to skip that show, you will definitely see the refreshed 2018 Lincoln MKC next January at the 2018 Detroit auto show.
