If comfort and luxury are what you seek, but you’re on a relatively tight budget, the Lincoln Corsair is a perfect choice. It offers decent performance, all the tech you need, and an upscale interior for less than $45,000.
Launched in 2019 as a 2020 model, the Corsair is built on the same Ford C2 platform used by the latest Focus, Escape (Kuga in Europe), and Bronco Sport.
However, out of all those models, the compact crossover offers the most luxurious package. The design of the exterior is arguably the most attractive, the chassis offers increased comfort, there are three solid powertrain options to choose from, and inside, customers are treated to a high-end experience thanks to the superior materials and abundance of technological features.
It is currently available in the same two individual trim levels from last year’s model: Standard (base MSRP $36,105) and Reserve (base MSRP $43,050). Both come with front-wheel drive, an efficient 2.0-liter inline-four EcoBoost good enough for 250 hp, and the easy-to-use eight-speed automatic transmission.
Optionally, these models can be enhanced with all-wheel-drive, a bigger 280-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder, and a host of optional packages.
Photo: The Lincoln Motor Company
New for 2021 is the upcoming Grand Touring trim that will offer a 266-hp AWD plug-in hybrid powertrain comprised of a 2.5-liter iVCT Atkinson-Cycle four-cylinder aided by an electric motor and a PowerSplit electric continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Regardless of the powertrain, the vehicle is not built for speed or agility so the driving experience can be summarized as average. Comfort and luxury are the main qualities, and the Corsair offers plenty of both.
The crossover delivers a very smooth ride due to the use of the integral bush rear suspension that absorbs impacts that would otherwise be felt in the cabin.
Photo: The Lincoln Motor Company
This brings us to the main talking point, the brilliant interior. Like its bigger siblings, the Navigator, Nautilus, and Aviator, the smaller Corsair offers everything that you would expect in terms of luxury.
The carmaker calls it a “sanctuary for the senses,” and that’s not at all an exaggeration. The first thing that will surprise owners is the quietness of it all.
A dual-wall dashboard creates an air gap between the passengers and the engine to keep vibrations out of the cabin. The serenity is complemented by an Active Noise Control system which enhances overall sound quality throughout the cabin.
The annoying standard electronic alerts are replaced by six unique symphonic chimes that inform drivers about everything from an open fuel door to an unbuckled seat belt. Recorded by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, these chimes add another level of calmness to the interior soundscape of the Corsair.
Photo: The Lincoln Motor Company
As standard, the cabin is filled with high-quality materials, including wood and solid metal trims. Depending on the model, the seating surfaces come in soft-touch or leather-trimmed upholstery available in a wide range of colors.
These can be enhanced with the $1,100 Elements Package, which adds heating capabilities to all the seats and steering wheel, ventilation to the front seats, and rain-sensing wipers.
On the Reserve trim, customers can add Lincoln’s amazing Perfect Position front seats for another $1,100. These leather-trimmed seats are 24-way electronically adjustable and offer additional lumbar support.
Photo: The Lincoln Motor Company
In terms of infotainment, the standard 8-inch display is more than adequate. It uses Ford’s SYNC 3 system which is a little outdated, yet provides all the must-have features like enhanced voice recognition, Apple Carplay, or Android Auto compatibility.
The Standard trim comes with a 10-speaker audio system, which shouldn’t disappoint; for audiophiles, the Reserve trim provides an enhanced 14-Speaker Revel system that includes a subwoofer.
Overall, the Corsair will not disappoint those looking for a bargain luxury crossover made in the U.S. The base models are very pleasing to the eye in every single way, offering a combination of comfort, luxury, and technology that can only be found on more expensive alternatives. Adding a few extras will make it even more appealing, without going over $45,000.
Vlad's first car was custom coach built: an exotic he made out of wood, cardboard and a borrowed steering wheel at the age of five. Combining his previous experience in writing and car dealership years, his articles focus in depth on special cars of past and present times. Full profile
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