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Originally Posted by nadepalma
It says the lineup will "focus on 3 segments" - but does that mean the entire lineup will be made up of three products ONLY? Could we not see a coupe, like the European Ford Capri concept - make it to Mercury showrooms?
Wait one second - when did this happen?!?!?!?!
I know that there are a number of Ford/Lincoln-Mercury showrooms, but that has always been the exception to the rule. Typically the overwhelming number of Ford showrooms were stand alone and Lincoln-Mercury showrooms were always separate.
Now this? Are they SERIOUSLY looking to consolidate the dealership network that will sell all three under one roof?
If they do decide to do this, I hate to say it, but it will KILL Lincoln as a truly upscale brand.
Part of the only reaons Lincoln has not been subjegated to complete "also-ran" luxury status has been because it has its own dealer network - which means they usually treat their customers better and offer a better dealership network.
But if they look to consolidate all these brands under one roof, it will make Lincoln nothing more than a "slightly upscale" brand much like Buick and Chrysler are now. Look at Chrysler - they consolidated it with all their other brands, and now on a good day, it's the equivalent of Buick or Mercury. It has no cachet.
Doing this will mean that Lincoln's hopes of eventually chasing back up the ladder to re-establish their place alongside Cadillac in the luxury pecking order may be in doubt. I can't see selling $12K Ford Fiestas next to $38K Lincoln MKSs as helping them cement their image among luxury buyers.
But IF this is TRUE - then it also calls into question WHY they would need Mercury to begin with.
I'm a Mercury fan, and I truly believe the brand has value. But part of what makes Mercury a needed brand is that it helps offset volume to allow Lincoln-Mercury fanchises to continue. If FoMoCo consolidates Ford with Lincoln-Mercury stores --- then why would you even bother? Those dealerships will already have a "volume component" - the Ford brand itself. Wouldn't that call into question Mercury's position in the pecking order?
Just my 2 cents....
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The showrooms will be seperate. Think BMW/Mini.
As for Kuzak's comments on Mercury, this is just the opening round of products. Redesigned Milan first, then new Mercury C-Car, then all-new Mariner based on the new Kuga/Escape. There will be more products to follow that.
Keep in mind, Ford has no money right now, hence only core products will recieve attention. Once the company is solidly profitable (CY2012), expect investment in new product to ramp up, and Mercury will get more B and C cars.
Another note... Focus 5-door and convertible are intended for North American consumption. Hint hint...