On display at the Beijing auto show, the Lincoln MKC, the brand's first small premium utility vehicle, gives customers globally a fresh choice in this extremely popular segment, said the company.

Arriving on the heels of the all-new and successful 2013 Lincoln MKZ sedan, the MKC is one of the five new luxury vehicles Lincoln plans to introduce to China by 2016.

The model is a distinctive creation from the ground up with an assortment of first-in-class features. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine offers excellent performance while its ingeniously implemented wraparound liftgate is an example of masterful customer convenience.

The luxurious interior embraces driver and passengers alike, and its innovative technology personalizes the MKC ownership experience, said the company's executives.

"Lincoln MKC is a perfect blend of inspired automotive design and dynamic driving performance in a segment that has grown in popularity in recent years," said Executive Vice President of Ford Global Marketing, Sales, and Service and Lincoln, Jim Farley.

"As a challenger luxury brand, entering this segment is a natural next step for us. The MKC will do more than just compete - it will change the way people think about Lincoln."

First introduced as a concept vehicle at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Lincoln MKC represents a milestone in the company's plan to expand its lineup.

It gives Lincoln a compelling offering in the small premium utility vehicle segment, the fastest-growing section of the luxury auto market in China.

In 2013 the segment grew by 74 percent compared to the previous year - and has grown 984 percent since 2010. The growth is being driven by new luxury buyers who are coming into affluence, as well as by current luxury owners who are moving from larger vehicles to smaller ones as their life desires change.

Inspired inside and out

The Lincoln design team faced the dual challenge of creating a standout vehicle in a competitive field while further refining the Lincoln design DNA that started with the 2013 MKZ.

From its signature split-wing grille to its uniquely crafted, hands-free wraparound liftgate, the Lincoln DNA is evident.

MKC presents a sleek, sculpted body that helps it stand out among peers. Its high beltline and low shoulders create a sturdy, athletic presence, while features such as soft exterior lighting, pedestal side-view mirrors and an available panoramic, all-glass vista roof give the vehicle a luxurious, sophisticated personality.

The unique design also carries through to the interior, where craftsmanship and high-tech combine to offer a warm, luxurious environment.

An architecturally unique instrument panel showcases Lincoln's signature push-button gear shifter, which provides an open, inviting interior space. Plush leathers with French stitching, and available Bridge of Weir leather and real wood trim accentuate MKC's elegance and grace.

"We gave attention to every detail to convey a stylish, fashion-oriented vehicle," said Lincoln Interior Design Chief Soo Kang. "Our use of colors, materials, stitching every detail was considered to create an overall luxurious experience."

To be more consistent with the Lincoln driving experience, an all-new Lincoln steering wheel debuts on MKC and will be available on all future Lincoln vehicles. This highly tactile leather-wrapped wheel provides better feeling and control and puts the brand's new design DNA in the driver's hands.

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine is projected to achieve 179 kW of power and 366 Nm of torque, according to preliminary test data. Class-exclusive active grille shutters are designed to help improve MKC fuel efficiency at highway speeds.

The model comes standard with front-wheel drive and 18-inch wheels. Drivers can upgrade to Lincoln's intelligent all-wheel drive and 19-inch wheels for enhanced cornering and handling and an even sportier look.

The all-wheel drive system also includes continuously controlled damping. CCD constantly monitors the road and the suspension reacts on average within 20 milliseconds, providing a smooth ride with enhanced handling.

The MKC's track width allowed designers the freedom to create a planted stance while providing engineers the opportunity to minimize body roll and give the vehicle a more sporty feel.

MKC offers advanced technology such as collision warning with brake support, a lane-keeping system and driver assist to help drivers avoid common accidents.

zhuanti@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 04/20/2014 page24)