“The Lincoln MKC I bought is wonderful! I love it more every time I drive! It has all I could want or need. I feel 100% safe putting my grandchildren in my car.”
2016 Lincoln MKC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2016 Lincoln MKC is the newer SYNC 3 touchscreen system, which replaces MyLincoln Touch across the lineup. This is otherwise a modest update, with revised trim names, a standard power liftgate on Select, and a higher tow rating for properly equipped models with the 2.3-liter engine.
About the 2016 Lincoln MKC
1st generation MKC (2015-2019), second model year before the 2019 styling update.
Lincoln positioned the MKC as a small premium SUV built around quiet comfort, tailored cabin design, and easy everyday technology rather than sporty handling. The brand emphasized its welcoming lighting, upscale materials, turbocharged power, and calm ride quality. For most buyers, the MKC’s appeal was getting a more intimate, comfort-focused luxury crossover with strong feature content and a distinctive Lincoln look, instead of a harsher or more aggressively styled rival.
The 2016 MKC ranges from the straightforward Premiere, with heated front seats and an 8-inch touchscreen, to the leather-trimmed Select. Reserve adds features such as a panoramic roof, navigation, cooled front seats, and blind-spot monitoring. Black Label focuses on a more distinctive cabin with Venetian leather, an Alcantara headliner, themed wood trim, and 19-inch wheels.
What changed, by category
Tech
SYNC 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen replaces MyLincoln Touch across the lineup. The Select trim also gains a standard power liftgate.
Powertrain
MKCs with the optional 2.3-liter engine are rated to tow up to 3,000 pounds when fitted with the tow package.
2016 Lincoln MKC specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0T / 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.3T | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0T / 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.3T | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0T | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.0T / 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, 2.3T |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd SelectShift | Auto, 6-Spd SelectShift | Auto, 6-Spd SelectShift | Auto, 6-Spd SelectShift |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD | FWD | FWD / AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18–20 mpg | 18–20 mpg | 20 mpg | 18–20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26–29 mpg | 26–29 mpg | 29 mpg | 26–29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 240–285 hp | 240–285 hp | 240 hp | 240–285 hp |
| Torque | 270–305 lb-ft | 270–305 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft | 270–305 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3000 lb | 3000 lb | 3000 lb | 3000 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 36.8 in | 36.8 in | 36.8 in | 36.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Cooled Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Lincoln MKC?
The biggest change is SYNC 3, an updated 8-inch touchscreen system that replaces MyLincoln Touch throughout the 2016 MKC lineup.
Is the 2016 Lincoln MKC a major update over the 2015 model?
No. The 2016 MKC is a modest update rather than a redesign. Its main improvement is SYNC 3, along with a revised trim lineup, a standard power liftgate on Select, and increased towing capability for properly equipped 2.3-liter models.
Which trims does the 2016 Lincoln MKC have?
The 2016 MKC lineup consists of Premiere, Select, Reserve, and Black Label. Compared with 2015, Premiere, Select, and Reserve join the lineup while the former Base trim is dropped.
What changed on the 2016 Lincoln MKC Select?
The 2016 MKC Select gains SYNC 3 and makes its power liftgate standard. It also has leather-trimmed seats, ambient interior lighting, and a power front-passenger seat.
How much can the 2016 Lincoln MKC tow?
A 2016 MKC with the optional 2.3-liter engine and tow package is rated to tow up to 3,000 pounds. That higher rating is one of the model year’s smaller updates.
2016 Lincoln MKC Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Lincoln MKC.
4.3
2016 Lincoln MKC
(263 reviews)
“That it is a very smooth riding vehicle and easy to handle. Very nice and quick response to acceleration.”
“The car handles great. I feel secure in its handling. Even though gas mileage isn't what I went for, for a SUV I am happy with what I am getting. I like sitting up higher in a car. I am comfortable with the visibility. I am really enjoying driving my C.”
Sources
- media.lincoln.com — Product / 2016 / 2016 Lincoln MKC Pricing HR
- media.lincoln.com — 06 / 02 / All New 2015 Lincoln Mkc Blends Performance Quality And Technol
- media.lincoln.com — 40 / 19 / Lincoln Mkc Drives Brand Momentum With More Technology And Featu
- media.lincoln.com — 11 / 17 / Lincoln Black Label Elevates Craftsmanship Quality Service
- media.lincoln.com — Black Label / Fact Sheets / Lincoln Black Label Fact Sheet MKC Modern Heritage
- media.lincoln.com — Black Label / Fact Sheets / Lincoln Black Label Fact Sheet MKC Oasis