Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring Delivers 266 HP Via Electric AWD

We are at a moment of change in the auto industry as powertrain technology is changing at a rapid pace. Manufacturers are seeking that balance between the performance customers expect with the efficiency they need. So from traditional gas engines to all-electric motivation (see Mustang Mach-E), there are plenty of ways to motivate a vehicle. The latest SUV from Lincoln, the Corsair Grand Touring, relies on a combination of plug-in hybrid tech and electric all-wheel drive to deliver a potent luxury experience.

“The advanced hybrid powertrain provides a step-up offering in our lineup, delivering effortless acceleration and all-wheel-drive capability that is unique to this segment,” said Patrick Smith, Lincoln Corsair chief engineer. “The gliding, responsive take-off makes Corsair Grand Touring a powerful, balanced and nimble SUV to drive.”

Making up the powertrain is a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gas engine mated to a permanent magnet synchronous motor. This pairing is said to produce 266 horsepower delivered via electric all-wheel drive, and it can travel for 25 miles before the engine needs to provide assist. A PowerSplit electric Continuously Variable Transmission incorporating two electric motors smoothes the power delivery.

Enhancing the high-tech powertrain is a suite of drive modes that allow the driver to tweak the driving experience for any situation. These include standard Normal, Conserve, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions modes. Meanwhile two electric-vehicle specific modes — Preserve EV and Pure EV — allow for preserving battery power for later use or maintaining all-electric mode to save fuel.

Continuing the high-tech theme, this SUV takes advantage of the Lincoln Way app, which enables preserving driver preference settings, like seat, mirror, and entertainment settings. It also enables Phone As A Key technology. Using the app, drivers can lock the doors, open the lift gate, and drive the vehicle without a traditional keyfob.

If you are so inclined to drive a compact, high-tech luxury SUV, the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring will arrive on dealer lots next summer.