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New for 2015: Lincoln

2015 Lincoln Overview

Still in the midst of an attempted brand revival, Lincoln enters the 2015 model year with an important new addition to the company lineup: the MKC. Built to compete with a growing class of premium- and luxury-grade small crossovers, the MKC is highlighted by Lincoln's signature styling and has an EcoBoost engine.

The MKC's bigger brother, the MKX, has been carried over unchanged, though a redesigned version is expected to debut for 2016. Shoppers interested in the full-size Navigator won't have to wait that long, as the 2015 model arrives with updated styling and a standard EcoBoost V-6. Revisions have been made to the MKZ sedan, as well, though they're limited to shuffling of content and new paint colors.

As this article is written, Lincoln has not released details about the 2015 MKS or MKT.

2015 Lincoln MKC

Lincoln's smallest crossover/SUV is actually the brand's biggest newsmaker for 2015. The all-new 5-passenger MKC is based on the Ford Escape's platform, but, with its Lincoln badge and long list of amenities, competes with models including the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X1, and the Infiniti QX50. Power for the 2015 MKC comes from one of two 4-cylinder EcoBoost engines: a 2.0-liter that generates 240 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque, or a 2.3-liter version that produces 285 horsepower and 305 lb.-ft. of torque. Buyers have their choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). EPA ratings estimate fuel economy as high as 29 mpg on the highway.

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Starting off the MKC's lineup is the Premiere trim level, equipped with heated power front seats, 8-in. touch-screen infotainment system, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, HID headlights, rearview camera and park-assist sensors, 7 air bags, and push-button start. The mid-level MKC Select adds extras such as unique 18-in. alloy wheels and upgraded leather, while the 2015 Lincoln MKC Reserve offers cooled front seats, a panoramic roof, navigation, foot-activated power tailgate, and more. Several safety and convenience packages are also available.

What's New:

  • All-new crossover model slots below the MKX

  • Choice of 4-cylinder EcoBoost engines

  • FWD or AWD

  • 5-passenger seating

  • Premiere, Select and Reserve trim levels

2015 Lincoln MKS

As this article is written, Lincoln has not released details about the 2015 MKS.

Currently Lincoln's largest sedan, the MKS received significant updates in 2013 and a few more in 2014, including the addition of a standard rearview camera. Two trim levels are offered: MKZ, equipped with a 304-horsepower 3.7-liter V-6; and MKZ EcoBoost, which is fitted with a turbocharged, 365-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6. Shoppers opting for the 3.7-liter engine have their choice of FWD or AWD traction, whereas those selecting the EcoBoost enjoy standard AWD.

What's New:

  • 2015 model-year information not yet available

2015 Lincoln MKT

As this article is written, Lincoln has not released details about the 2015 MKT.

The slow-selling Lincoln MKT is a 7-passenger FWD or AWD crossover that shares its vehicle architecture with the boxier Ford Flex and draws power from a 3.7-liter V-6 or a turbocharged, 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine. EPA figures suggest drivers can expect to average up to 25 mpg on the highway. Among the MKT's most notable features are a continuously damping suspension system, inflatable second-row outboard seat belts, 700-watt premium audio system, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

What's New:

  • 2015 model-year information not yet available

2015 Lincoln MKX

Behind its distinctive styling and premium appointments, the 5-passenger MKX exists as Lincoln's version of the Ford Edge, a model that has been redesigned for 2015. The MKX has been carried over unchanged, though we expect a new and improved version--based on the MKX Concept--to debut for 2016. Until then, the 2015 MKX will continue to be available with a choice of FWD or AWD systems, 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 engine, front and rear heated seats, 650-watt premium audio package, and intelligent cruise control.

What's New:

  • MKX is unchanged for the 2015 model year

2015 Lincoln MKZ

Changes are fairly minor for the 2015 Lincoln MKZ sedan and include the introduction of new paint colors, additional standard features like a rearview camera and park-assist sensors, and the rearranging of optional items and packages. Otherwise, the 2015 MKZ is essentially carryover from the 2014 model. Shoppers considering this 5-passenger premium sedan have their choice of FWD or AWD and either a naturally aspirated V-6, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, or a hybrid powertrain offering an EPA-estimated 38 mpg in mixed driving.

What's New:

  • New paint colors

  • Additional standard features including rearview camera

  • Updated options

2015 Lincoln Navigator

On the news meter, the 2015 Lincoln Navigator and Navigator L come in just behind the all-new MKC. Attribute that to the 8-passenger body-on-frame SUVs' updated exterior styling, upgraded interior materials, and the employment of a standard 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine in lieu of last year's less powerful and less efficient 5.4-liter V-8. According to the EPA, the turbocharged Navigator can average up to 22 mpg on the highway, a commendable achievement for a luxury SUV capable of towing up to 9,000 lbs.

Also available with the 2015 Navigator and stretched Navigator L is a Reserve package consisting of premium leather throughout the cabin, accent stitching on the dash, and genuine wood trim.

What's New:

  • Standard V-6 EcoBoost engine

  • Improved fuel economy

  • Updated styling

  • Upgraded interior materials

  • Reserve equipment package

  • Electric power steering

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