Lincoln Mulls Escape Based Crossover
Lincoln has already admitted that it will not be pursuing a halo car for some time, and that the brand is taking aim at larger volume segments first and foremost. A luxury crossover is the first step in the plan.
Based on the newly redesigned Ford Escape, the Lincoln crossover will take on the likes of the Lexus RX, Mercedes GLK, Volvo XC60 and the Audi Q5. The new crossover is likely still two years away from being on sale, and should debut in 2013 as a 2014 model year vehicle.
Lincoln is in no position to take on competitors in some of the smaller niche segments, so it is directing its efforts on the volume sellers for success. “That small premium utility segment is growing” said Lincoln product development chief Scott Tobin. “It’s the fastest growing segment.”
And while still on the back burner, the idea of a flagship car is not lost on Lincoln. “I can see us with a D-segment flagship vehicle. I think we would have to do that. We’re not ruling it out by any means. We’re working on that,” added Tobin.
[Source: Auto News]
Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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