21 MPG combined won’t win any awards in the competitive compact luxury SUV class. It’s the reality for those who want all-weather confidence and a smooth ride over maximum fuel efficiency in the 2017 Lincoln MKC with all-wheel drive and the 2.0L engine. This configuration suits buyers in areas with difficult weather, or those simply wanting the extra security of AWD. Fuel economy is less important, but still considered, for these owners.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Lincoln MKC AWD 2.0L gets 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic and lower speeds, while the highway number suggests the MKC performs reasonably well at consistent speeds. This difference shows that driving style and conditions affect fuel consumption. The 2.0L engine is turbocharged, but it still has to move a relatively heavy vehicle, which affects city fuel economy more than some might expect.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lincoln MKC AWD 2.0L is $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will depend on your driving and local fuel prices, but the $2,100 estimate is a good way to compare yearly fuel expenses to other vehicles. Comparing this with all Lincoln fuel economy data can help buyers understand relative fuel costs within the Lincoln lineup. Some buyers may find value in looking at MKC MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standard comparison, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Factors like hard acceleration, frequent hard braking, extra weight, and even tire pressure can reduce fuel efficiency. Drivers using the MKC mainly in cities with heavy traffic might see numbers near or even below the EPA’s 19 MPG city rating. In contrast, those mainly driving on highways with light traffic could see numbers close to the 25 MPG highway rating or even slightly higher, assuming even speeds and light throttle inputs.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles, the 2017 Lincoln MKC AWD 2.0L’s fuel economy is average. For example, the Acura RDX with all-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined, a little better. The BMW X3 xDrive28i delivers similar numbers, around 24 MPG combined. The Audi Q5 with its 2.0T engine achieves comparable figures, though its slightly more advanced engine and transmission design provides a slight advantage in overall MPG. The MKC’s appeal is often its unique mix of American luxury, ride comfort, and value, qualities that some buyers want more than an extra mile per gallon. The Lexus NX 300h hybrid gets much better fuel economy (31 MPG combined), but its hybrid system delivers a different driving experience that isn’t for everyone.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Careful acceleration is important for maximizing gas mileage in the MKC. Avoid quick starts and let the turbocharger build up gradually. Quick acceleration uses much more fuel than a smooth, controlled start.

Keep a steady speed on the highway. Using cruise control can help you avoid accidental speed changes, improving fuel consumption. Air resistance increases a lot at higher speeds, so even a small drop in speed can save gas.

Check that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side door.

Reduce idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and the fuel saved by avoiding long idling periods can add up.

Remove extra items from your vehicle. Extra weight lowers fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and rear seats to lessen the load and improve mileage.