Originally Posted by ds91776
I actually really like your proposed lineup for Lincoln, however I have to say tha the MKT is coming for the 2010 model year and the Navigator is probably getting an update with a new nose and engine as well as the possablity of a new or hevily revised interior like its Expedition sister ship. Here is my dream Lincoln Lineup of the future and tell me what you guys think:
-MKZ: Competes with ES, TSX, S40, A3, A4,etc. Base the next gen on the 3rd gen S40/V50 on the premium version of the C2 platform...let's call it C2+. Give it the 2.0/2.5I4 EcoBoost engine that is rumored to make 275hp or so. Have std FWD with optional AWD as well as a hybrid version. Make the next gen car slightly smaller and "go-cart like" but with still a more supple ride and good NVH ratings. Make it the "friendly Lincoln" with a less aggressive face. This car can compete at the lower, non-performance end of the entry-level lux market and would be very fuel efficient yet still powerful, market it as the eco-and wallet friendly luxury car.
MKR: Competes with 3, C, G37, IS, CTS, A4, etc. Based on the premium version of the upcoming RWD platform that I am going to call D3C+ for simplicity's sake. This is the sporty "bad boy" in Lincoln's lineup with aggressive styling right off of the concept with nuremburg handling and a throaty snarl from the engine. Give it 3.7V6-273hp as the base model with the 3.5V6 EcoBoost with 340-360 as an option, with the rumored upgraded version making 415hp as the Sport Model that Lincoln will come up with.
MKS: Competes with: GS, 5, E, M35/45,XF, STS,A6, RL, etc. This is Lincoln's luxury sedan, with a big interior and trunk, with amazing NVH qualities and a good balance between soundhandling and suppleness. It is based on the premium version of Ford's large car platform, the D4+, sharing platforms with future S80, v70, and XC90. Have the 3.5V6 EcoBoost with 340/360hp as standard with the sport model making 415hp.
Give it a hybrid version based upon the rumored 2011/2012 Edge hybrid programs.
MKC: Competes with: LS, 7, CLS, S, XJ, Q45, ETS/DTS, etc. Lincoln's flagship that they could call Continental if they so chose to do so. Make it look like the 2002 Continental Concept with the splitting of the grille at the front, leave everything essentially the same. Give it a standard V8, maybe a premium version of the 6.2 that's coming that could make 420hp or so. Have standard everything except maybe AWD and Vista Roof as options. Make this a bargain car, selling for thousands less yet still able to compete, just like the original Lexus LS did and we all know how that worked out.
MK9: Competes with entry and mid luxury coupes and convertables. Sharing mechanicals and engines with the MKR, the MK9 should be Lincoln's entry into the hard top convertable market...make it look similar to the gorgeous MK9 concept from 2002/2001, with of course the addition of the split-wave grille. This will give Lincoln a halo car to hang its hat on, but not too expensive, starting at the mid thirties and reaching up to the mid forties for the sport model.
MKG: Competes with RDX, EX, and other small, 5 row entry lux CUVs. base it on the premium version that underpins the next gen MKZ as well as the 3rd gen S40/V50/C70. Give it the 2.0/2.5I4 EcoBoost engine making 275hp as standard with a hybrid version as well.
MKX: Competes with MDX, RX, etc. Based upon Ford's next gen FWD CD platform, the CD4. Give it three rows this time, but it will be a small third row for little adults and kids. Make the 3.7V6-273 hp standard with the 3.5V6 EcoBoost as an option and possibly a hybrid version if the Taurus/Edge rumors for 2011 are true.
MKT: Competes with GX, R, etc. Large Cuv sharing all mechanicals and engines with the MKS. It is the cool and stylish family CUV with plenty of room for 6-7 people, even adults in the back seat. Offer a hybrid version that is rumored to go into the 2011-2012 Taurus and Edge.
Navigator: Competes with Escalade and Land Rovers, etc. Premium version of the Expedition with a powerful V8 and diesel engines. Lower the weight but keep it tought, people seeking a softer ride with better fuel economy can buy an MKT if that suits there needs better and vice-versa.
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