By Drew Johnson
Monday, Aug 13th, 2012 @ 10:36 am
 
Luxury automakers like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have expanded into low-volume niche markets in recent years, but don't expect Lincoln to follow suit. Instead, Ford's luxury division will focus on the luxury market's volume segments.

With sales down 11 percent so far this year, Lincoln is putting on blinders and zeroing in on the volume segments of the luxury markets. That means we won't be seeing a Mercedes-Benz S-Class competitor from Lincoln any time soon, even though cross-town rival Cadillac is readying a new flagship of its own.

Lincoln's strategy will begin with the redesigned 2013 MKZ sedan. Ford's luxury division is hoping new features like a distinct front grille, push-button transmission and retractable roof will help the MKZ take on high-volume sellers in the entry-level luxury market like the Lexus ES.

According to Automotive News, Lincoln is also readying a new compact crossover based on the latest Ford Escape. Set to wear the MKC nameplate, the crossover should debut sometime in 2013.

Lincoln is also planning updates for its MKT, MKX, MKS and Navigator models.