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The Lincoln Corsair is updated for 2023 but we wonder if a gently used 2020 model might be the better value.
Is it Better to Buy a Used or New Lincoln Corsair?
netcarshow.com | Shop Lincoln Corsair on Carsforsale.com
It’s no secret that depreciation can be a big hit for those that buy new cars. At the same time, the used-car market has been surprisingly high over the last few years.
The Lincoln Corsair is not immune to those forces and a well-maintained 2020 model also features something that is no longer available for 2023, a more powerful engine. On the flip side of the coin, the 2023 edition is available with a hybrid drivetrain.
Which is the better value? We’re going to compare everything from specs to driving behavior to interior comfort and features to find a winner.
Specs
The 2020 Lincoln Corsair is available with either a 2.0-liter engine or a 2.3-liter engine though the latter is rare. The former makes 250 hp while the 2.3-liter makes 295 hp. Both utilize an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The smaller engine is available with front or all-wheel drive while the larger only comes with power to all four wheels.
Both engines and both drive layouts get nearly identical fuel economy with scores of up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. Pricing for the 2020 version depends heavily on condition and mileage but the average price sits around $35,000 and average mileage is near 30,000.
It’s worth noting that we picked the 2020 Corsair as one of the most reliable luxury SUVs under $30,000.
A new 2023 Lincoln Corsair features an MSRP between $40,085 and $55,280. Keep in mind that there are some big differences in terms of powertrain and content between the two different models.
This new Corsair is also available with the 2.0-liter engine from the 2020 model and it still makes 250 hp and is available with front or all-wheel drive. It gets EPA estimates of 22 mpg in the city and 30 on the highway.
The top trim Lincoln Corsair, the Grand Touring, leverages a 2.5-liter hybridized four-cylinder engine that makes 266 hp and sends that through a continuously variable transmission and then onto all four wheels. Not only does it offer 28 miles of all-electric range but it gets up to 34 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Driving and Performance
These SUVs drive nearly identically but there are subtle differences between powertrains. First, let’s chat about what they all share, namely, handling and feedback. The Corsair is a small SUV that features a nicely weighted steering wheel and clear communication through the chassis. It’s easy to place and changes direction eagerly. The pedals are easy to modulate and provide linear control of both acceleration and braking.
The Corsair models powertrains really differentiate themselves from one another. The base 2.0-liter engine found in both the 2020 and the 2023 editions is straightforward and approachable. 250 hp might not sound like much, and it isn’t, but it’s more than enough to move the Corsair through the world with confidence and composure. The eight-speed automatic is great too and never seems to need extra time to hunt for the correct gear.
The 2.3-liter engine from 2020 is also good and at times we’d even say it’s fun as the extra horsepower on tap is noticeable. It’s considerably quicker in a straight line than cars like the Audi Q3 and the base Jaguar F-Pace.
At the same time, the Corsair doesn’t really have the chassis and handling chops to make the most of that power. Testing figures bare that out further as the two are less than a second apart when it comes to drag racing from 0-60 mph.
The electrified 2.5-liter from the 2023 Corsair is a bit pokey compared to the other two. The hybrid is heavier than the gas-powered versions so it’s a little slower in every way including acceleration, braking, and directional changes.
Comfort and Interior
These two cars share most of their interior features but there are some noticeable changes between the two. For example, the 2020 model comes with dual-zone climate control, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, and an 8-inch infotainment system. Lincoln offered a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster as well but it’s not standard on every model.
The infotainment system leverages Sync 3, a fine interface that works quickly and offers clean menu layouts. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard. 24-way power-adjustable seats are also available for the front row. The back seats aren’t as luxurious though. The padding isn’t as supportive or as comfortable.
For 2023, Lincoln features an entirely new tech package that includes the 12.3-inch digital driver display as standard along with a 13.2-inch infotainment system with Sync 4 at the foundation. There’s an available heads-up display along with the same 24-way adjustable seats. Similarly to the old Corsair, the new one struggles in the rear seat department where things are simply not as comfy as they are in the front seats.
The new Corsair also shines in the safety department. While both scored five stars in crash testing with the NHTSA, only the new Corsair is available with ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi autonomous driving software. Cargo space between the two models is identical with 27.6 cubic feet behind the second row.
Trims and Features
The 2020 Corsair was available in just two trim levels that buyers could then add packages to.
Standard – This version came with the 2.0-liter engine, active noise control, 10-way power-adjustable heated front seats, LED headlights, a power liftgate, rear privacy glass, a keypad on the driver’s door, an 8-inch infotainment system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a wifi hotspot, and six speakers.
Reserve – This trim adds leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a hands-free liftgate, and an upgraded stereo system. Buyers can add the Reserve I package with a heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, and additional driver aids. They can also spec the Reserve II package with the 2.3-liter engine, a digital gauge cluster, and 24-way power-adjustable seats.
The 2023 Corsair is available in three trim levels.
Standard – 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, faux leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, driver’s seat memory settings, a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, a digital gauge cluster, 10 speakers, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, remote start, and a wifi hotspot.
Reserve – 19-inch wheels, upgraded exterior lighting, additional interior ambient lighting, leather upholstery, and a 14-speaker Revel stereo system.
Grand Touring – This trim gets the hybrid engine, a panoramic sunroof, an adaptive suspension, and unique exterior design details that set it apart.
The Verdict
2023 Lincoln Corsair – netcarshow.com | Shop Lincoln Corsair on Carsforsale.com
Pricing between these two simply isn’t big enough to really make a used Corsair seem appealing. A new Corsair comes with updated content, the option for a hybrid powertrain and subsequent all-electric range, and a full warranty. A used Corsair might cost a little less on paper but it doesn’t add value in any other appreciable way so we’re giving this win to the new 2023 Lincoln Corsair.
