When you take a look at the Lincoln MKC for 2017 you may find it’s a familiar feeling vehicle, but you might not know why. That’s probably because it does share its architecture with the Ford Escape, but beyond the basic bones of the SUV you will have an upscale and premium vehicle to drive with a name you trust as an American luxury brand. The MKC offers you a youthful feel but also gives you the luxury feeling and comfort you look for in a compact crossover SUV that’s perfect for the drive on any road.

Not often do we have a compact crossover luxury SUV from a domestic brand that can compete with the European models, but the MKC brings in the right features to lead the way. For 2017 the MKC adds a power liftgate, automatic start/stop on the FWD models and automatic hold braking to the mix as standard features. Additional changes include the addition of the upgraded Sync 3 audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as an option along with the automatic start/stop being offered as an optional feature on the AWD models.

The MKC has a wider track and lower center of gravity than its platform mate the Escape. This gives the MKC greater stability in the corners to allow it to maneuver more like a sedan than what you’re used to from SUVs. Using the Lincoln Torque Vectoring Control system and the Continuously Controlled Damping system the drive in this SUV can be a driver’s dream on any road. Three settings are offered, Comfort, Sport and Normal to give you the settings and drive you want. Adding a quiet cabin to the ride allows you to truly enjoy the amazing experience offered by the MKC.

Two EcoBoost engines greet you to choose from under the hood of the MKC both of which are attached to a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The base model is the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine which provides 240 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque. This powertrain is capable of providing you with 21 city/28 hwy mpg in the FWD versions and 19 city/25 hwy mpg in the AWD models. The second engine is a more powerful 2.3-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine which brings in 285 horsepower and 305 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is only set up with AWD and offers a powertrain that provides 18 city/25 hwy mpg of fuel mileage. The maximum towing capacity of the MKC is 3,000 which is enough to bring along a bit of gear for the fun weekend getaway.

Looking to the equipment the MKC offers you a wonderful menu of standard features. The Premiere model (base) offers active noise control, dual zone climate controls, the Sync 3 system a nine-speaker audio system and SiriusXM radio. The Select model brings in Bridge of Weir leather and premium wood trimmings along with ambient lighting, a ten-way power passenger seat and automatic folding side mirrors. The Reserve adds heating and cooling to the front seats, a panoramic Vista Roof, a navigation system, the MyLincoln Mobile App, blind spot monitoring and a power adjustable tilt/telescoping steering column.

While the base models of all three trims are impressive, you can increase the enjoyment with some excellent packages that will add items such as a fourteen-speaker THX II Certified Audio system, 19 or 20-inch wheels, a variety of paint colors, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, rain sensing wipers, automatic high beams, a towing package, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance and the Black Label Series which brings in a truly luxurious experience that extends beyond just driving the MKC.

For starter the MKC will demand a price near $33,600 for the Premiere model with the Select showing up around $37,000. The Black Label begins at the $46,500 price range and AWD will increase any model by $2,500. This gives you a reasonable price range to work with in an SUV that’s built to be one of the best you’ve ever driven on any road. The Lincoln MKC checks off more boxes than any other SUV in its class and will be the one you love to drive more often than any you’ve ever owned. It’s time to head over to your local Lincoln dealer and pick one up today.