When Lincoln Motors, the luxury brand of the Ford Motor Company, announced its decision to discontinue the MKT model, it took many by surprise. The MKT, which debuted in 2010, was a full-size crossover SUV touted for its spacious cabin, modern tech features, and smooth driving experience. Despite the positive reviews from auto enthusiasts, the Lincoln MKT never reached the kind of sales figures that Ford had hoped for in a highly competitive market. This led to the eventual halt of its production after the 2019 model year.
Ford had indicated that the MKT’s discontinuation was part of its strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on more profitable models. However, some industry experts attribute the MKT’s downfall to many factors. They argue that the styling of the MKT didn’t resonate with consumers, that it didn’t have the cache of its competitors, such as the Cadillac Escalade and BMW X7, and that the Lincoln brand didn’t have the same prestige as it once did. Despite the reasons for the end of its production, the MKT legacy will remain, and it will continue to live on in the memories of those who admired its bold design and overall performance.
As the automotive industry evolves, it’s inevitable that some models will come and go. The Lincoln MKT, while it may not have achieved the sales success that Ford had hoped for, it still played a significant role in the brand’s story. Both as a reflection of a time when the American auto market was emerging from the dip caused by the 2008 economic crisis, and as an example of the kind of daring and innovative thinking that can lead to success or failure in the highly competitive auto market.
Discontinuation of Lincoln MKT
The Lincoln MKT, a full-size luxury crossover SUV, was introduced in 2009 as a replacement for the Lincoln MKS. Despite having a loyal following and being a popular vehicle in the luxury crossover SUV segment, the Lincoln MKT was discontinued in 2019.
- The main reason for the discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT was its poor sales performance. According to reports, Lincoln sold just over 2,500 units of the MKT model in 2018 and only about 1,500 units in the first half of 2019. This was a significant drop from the previous years, making it financially unfeasible for the company to continue its production.
- The Lincoln MKT’s design was also considered controversial among automotive experts and customers. Many criticized its unconventional styling, which included a sloping roofline and an unusual grille design. The design language did not resonate well with customers, leading to a decline in sales.
- The arrival of the Lincoln Aviator, an all-new three-row luxury SUV, also played a significant role in the discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT. The Aviator, which was introduced in 2019, offered a modern and more appealing design, better technology, and performance options, making it a more attractive option for customers seeking a luxury crossover SUV.
Overall, the discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT can be attributed to its poor sales performance, controversial design, and the arrival of a more appealing and contemporary model, the Lincoln Aviator. While the Lincoln MKT may have had a loyal fan base, it was not enough to sustain its production in the ultra-competitive automotive industry.
Sales Performance of Lincoln MKT
The Lincoln MKT was introduced in 2009 as a full-size luxury crossover SUV. It was designed to compete with other high-end SUVs like the Audi Q7 and the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. However, the performance of the Lincoln MKT in terms of sales was not as successful as expected.
- The Lincoln MKT sold only 4,311 units in its first year of production, which was significantly lower than the expected sales of 12,000 to 15,000 units.
- The sales of the Lincoln MKT continued to decline over the years, reaching its lowest point in 2018 with only 1,449 units sold.
- Compared to its competitors, the Lincoln MKT was not very successful in the market. For example, the Audi Q7 sold 35,642 units in 2018, and the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class sold 31,230 units in the same year.
The underwhelming sales performance of the Lincoln MKT can be attributed to several factors:
- Styling: The exterior design of the Lincoln MKT was controversial and did not appeal to a wide range of customers.
- Marketing: The marketing strategy for the Lincoln MKT was not very effective in promoting its features and benefits to potential customers.
- Competition: The luxury SUV market was crowded with other popular and established brands, making it difficult for the Lincoln MKT to stand out.
In addition, the declining popularity of full-size SUVs and crossover vehicles also contributed to the slow sales of the Lincoln MKT. Consumers were shifting towards smaller and more fuel-efficient vehicles, and the Lincoln MKT was not able to adapt to this trend.
| Year | Units Sold |
|---|---|
| 2009 | 4,311 |
| 2010 | 10,515 |
| 2011 | 7,549 |
| 2012 | 7,435 |
| 2013 | 5,831 |
| 2014 | 5,271 |
| 2015 | 4,006 |
| 2016 | 3,388 |
| 2017 | 1,983 |
| 2018 | 1,449 |
Overall, the sales performance of the Lincoln MKT was disappointing, and Ford decided to discontinue its production after the 2019 model year. The Lincoln brand shifted its focus towards more popular and profitable SUV models like the Navigator and the Aviator.
Lincoln MKT versus other luxury SUVs
The Lincoln MKT was a luxury SUV produced by Ford Motor Company, which entered production in 2009 and continued until 2019. During its production run, the Lincoln MKT faced stiff competition from other luxury SUVs that offered similar features at a competitive price point. Here are some of the comparisons between the Lincoln MKT and other luxury SUVs:
- Lincoln MKT vs. Acura MDX: The Acura MDX was a popular luxury SUV that competed with the Lincoln MKT in terms of fuel efficiency and features. However, the MDX was priced higher than the MKT, which made it less attractive to budget-conscious buyers.
- Lincoln MKT vs. Infiniti QX60: The Infiniti QX60 was a mid-size luxury SUV that offered a powerful engine, comfortable ride, and a spacious interior, making it a top contender in the luxury SUV segment. However, the QX60 lacked the styling and sophistication of the Lincoln MKT, which made it less popular among luxury car enthusiasts.
- Lincoln MKT vs. Audi Q7: The Audi Q7 was another luxury SUV that competed with the Lincoln MKT in terms of features and styling. However, the Q7 had a higher price point than the MKT, which made it less accessible to most buyers. Additionally, the Q7 lacked the third-row seating option, which was a significant selling point of the Lincoln MKT.
Why did they stop making Lincoln MKT?
Despite offering a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and numerous features, the Lincoln MKT ultimately failed to gain market traction and was eventually discontinued in 2019. One of the main reasons for the discontinuation of the MKT was its poor fuel efficiency, which made it less attractive to buyers during a time when fuel-saving technologies were gaining increasing importance.
Additionally, the MKT faced stiff competition from other luxury SUVs in the market that offered superior features and performance. There was also a shift in consumer preferences towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, which further contributed to the demise of the Lincoln MKT.
Key takeaways
The Lincoln MKT faced stiff competition from other luxury SUVs that offered similar features at a better price point. In addition, poor fuel efficiency and consumer preferences for smaller, fuel-efficient cars contributed to the decision to discontinue the Lincoln MKT. Despite its shortcomings, the Lincoln MKT still remains a popular choice among luxury car enthusiasts who appreciate its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and numerous features.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious interior | Poor fuel efficiency |
| Comfortable ride | Less popular among budget-conscious buyers |
| Numerous features | Competition from other luxury SUVs |
Despite its drawbacks, the Lincoln MKT was a popular choice among luxury car enthusiasts who appreciated its unique styling and features. However, with the discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT, buyers looking for a luxury SUV will need to consider other options such as the Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, or Audi Q7.
Customer feedback on Lincoln MKT
Customer feedback played a significant role in the decision to discontinue the Lincoln MKT. The luxury crossover SUV had been on the market since 2010 but had not gained significant popularity among consumers. After gathering data from customer surveys, the Lincoln Motor Company found several critical areas of concern:
- The design did not resonate with customers. Some found the exterior styling dull and uninspired, while others found the interior cramped and lacking in luxury features.
- The vehicle’s performance was also a source of frustration for some buyers. The MKT’s V6 engine was underpowered compared to other luxury SUVs, and the handling was not as responsive as some drivers had hoped.
- The MKT’s fuel efficiency was also a complaint. Many drivers were looking for more eco-friendly options, and the MKT’s low gas mileage did not make it an attractive option.
What did customers like about the Lincoln MKT?
Despite the criticisms, some customers appreciated the Lincoln MKT’s unique features. These included:
- The spacious interior, which offered plenty of legroom and cargo space.
- The second-row captain’s chairs, which provided a luxurious seating option.
- The MKT’s advanced safety features, which included lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera.
How did customer feedback influence the decision to discontinue the MKT?
The Lincoln Motor Company took customer concerns seriously and used this feedback to inform future production decisions. When it became clear that the MKT was not meeting customer expectations, the company decided to discontinue it. This decision was based on the company’s commitment to providing customers with vehicles that meet their needs and exceed their expectations.
What does the future hold for Lincoln?
The Lincoln Motor Company is continuing to innovate and create new vehicles that appeal to customers. The company has introduced several new models in recent years, including the Lincoln Corsair and Aviator SUVs. These vehicles have received positive reviews from critics and customers alike, and the company is optimistic about their future prospects.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious interior | Uninspired design |
| Advanced safety features | Underpowered engine |
| Second-row captain’s chairs | Poor fuel efficiency |
Overall, the Lincoln MKT had both pros and cons, and its discontinuation was a result of the company’s commitment to meeting customer needs. As Lincoln continues to create new and innovative vehicles, it remains committed to listening to customer feedback and delivering on their expectations.
Lincoln MKT’s Design and Features
The Lincoln MKT was a luxury SUV that had a unique and distinctive design that set it apart from other SUVs on the market. Its sleek, flowing lines, and elegant curves gave it a modern and polished look that was both eye-catching and stylish.
The interior of the Lincoln MKT was also designed with luxury and comfort in mind. The interior was spacious and had a clean and modern look, with quality materials used throughout the cabin. The seats were comfortable, and the car was loaded with features that provided a luxurious and convenient driving experience.
Key Features of the Lincoln MKT
- Adaptive suspension
- Power-folding third-row bench
- Power liftgate
- Leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
The Discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT
In 2019, Lincoln announced that they would be discontinuing the MKT. This came as a surprise to many fans of the brand, who had come to appreciate the MKT’s unique design and luxurious features.
One of the reasons for the discontinuation of the MKT was the change in consumer tastes. Lincoln wanted to focus on producing SUVs that were more popular with consumers, and the MKT was not meeting their expectations in terms of sales.
Another reason for the discontinuation of the MKT was the introduction of new, more advanced models such as the Lincoln Aviator. The Aviator offered many of the same features as the MKT but with a more modern and refined design that appealed to a wider range of consumers.
Comparison: Lincoln MKT vs. Lincoln Aviator
The introduction of the Lincoln Aviator was a major reason for the discontinuation of the MKT. While the MKT was an excellent SUV, the Aviator offered more advanced technology and features that made it a more attractive option for consumers.
| Lincoln MKT | Lincoln Aviator | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $49,500 | $51,100 |
| Engine Options | 1 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 365 | 400 |
| Available Features | Adaptive suspension, leather upholstery, power-folding third-row bench | Phone As A Key, Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Plus, Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging pad, and an available panoramic sunroof |
Overall, while the MKT had many features that made it a great SUV, the Lincoln Aviator offered a more modern and advanced driving experience that appealed to a wider range of consumers. The discontinuation of the MKT was a strategic move by Lincoln to focus on producing SUVs that would meet the changing needs of their customers.
Factors that contributed to the decision to stop producing Lincoln MKT
The Lincoln MKT was a luxury SUV that was produced by the American automaker, Ford Motor Company. The SUV was first introduced in 2009 and was in production until its discontinuation in 2019. There were several factors that contributed to the decision to stop producing the Lincoln MKT.
- Decreasing sales: One of the primary reasons that the Lincoln MKT was discontinued was due to its decreasing sales. The Lincoln brand has been struggling for a while, and the MKT model was not immune to this trend. By the end of its production, the MKT was selling poorly. It had been years since the model had been given a significant update, and sales had been on a steady decline.
- Increased competition: Another factor that contributed to the discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT was the increased competition in the luxury SUV market. With new models being released by other luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the Lincoln MKT was struggling to compete. Consumers had more options than ever before, and the Lincoln MKT was simply not keeping up with the competition.
- Shifting consumer preferences: As the luxury SUV market has evolved, so too have consumer preferences. There has been a growing trend towards smaller, more fuel-efficient SUVs and crossovers. The Lincoln MKT, with its large size and low fuel efficiency, was no longer aligned with the shifting consumer preferences.
In addition to these factors, there were other issues with the Lincoln MKT that contributed to its eventual discontinuation. One of the primary concerns was the design of the vehicle. While the Lincoln MKT was considered to be a luxury SUV, many consumers felt that its design was outdated and unappealing.
Overall, the decision to discontinue the Lincoln MKT was a strategic one by Ford Motor Company. With decreasing sales, increased competition, shifting consumer preferences, and design concerns, the company felt that it was time to retire the model and focus on other vehicles in their lineup.
Conclusion
While the Lincoln MKT had its loyal fans, the overall demand for the vehicle was simply not strong enough to justify its continued production. The factors that contributed to its discontinuation highlighted the challenges that automakers face in the ever-changing market. With new innovations and preferences, the automotive industry needs to constantly adapt and evolve to stay relevant.
| Subsection: | Factors that contributed to the decision to stop producing Lincoln MKT |
| Subtopics: | 1. Decreasing sales |
| 2. Increased competition | |
| 3. Shifting consumer preferences | |
| 4. Design concerns |
Future Plans of Lincoln for its SUV Lineup
Despite the discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT SUV, the luxury automaker has big plans for its SUV lineup in the future. Here are some of the company’s upcoming projects:
- Lincoln Aviator: Lincoln has recently launched the 2020 Lincoln Aviator, a versatile and stylish SUV that combines luxury with performance. The Aviator is set to be the flagship SUV in Lincoln’s lineup, and the company is banking on it to attract a new generation of luxury SUV buyers.
- Lincoln Nautilus: The Lincoln Nautilus is a mid-size luxury SUV that is aimed squarely at competitors like the Lexus RX and the Cadillac XT5. Lincoln recently updated the Nautilus with a new engine, revised styling, and a host of new features, demonstrating its commitment to keeping its SUV lineup fresh and competitive.
- New Electric SUV: Lincoln has announced plans to launch a new electric SUV in 2022, which will be based on the same platform as the upcoming Ford Mustang Mach-E. This new SUV will be aimed at luxury electric SUV buyers and will feature cutting-edge technology and advanced features.
Lincoln’s Commitment to Sustainability
In addition to its plans for new SUV models, Lincoln is also committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. The company has set a goal to reduce its CO2 emissions by 30% by 2025 and has invested heavily in electric and hybrid vehicle technology.
Lincoln’s new electric SUV is just one of the ways that the company is working to reduce its carbon footprint, and the company has also introduced hybrid versions of its popular models like the Lincoln Corsair and the Lincoln Aviator. Lincoln has also committed to using sustainable materials in its vehicles, with plans to use recycled plastics and eco-friendly materials in future models.
Lincoln’s SUV Lineup: A Bright Future Ahead
Although the Lincoln MKT is no longer in production, Lincoln’s SUV lineup is anything but stagnant. The company has big plans for its SUV models, including the newly launched Lincoln Aviator, the updated Lincoln Nautilus, and the upcoming electric SUV. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Lincoln is poised to be a major player in the luxury SUV market for years to come.
| Lincoln Models | Body Style | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Aviator | SUV | $51,100 |
| Lincoln Nautilus | SUV | $41,040 |
| Lincoln Corsair | SUV | $35,945 |
*MSRP reflects the base model with no optional features. Price does not include tax, title, license, or destination.
FAQs: Why Did They Stop Making Lincoln MKT?
1. Why did Lincoln stop making the MKT?
Lincoln’s decision to stop producing the MKT was driven by several factors, including low sales figures and the company’s push to modernize and streamline their product lineup.
2. Was the Lincoln MKT a good car?
The Lincoln MKT was generally well-received by critics and consumers during its production, but sales performance ultimately fell short of expectations.
3. What was the final year of the Lincoln MKT?
The Lincoln MKT’s final year of production was 2019, after which it was replaced by the Lincoln Aviator.
4. Is the Lincoln MKT still available?
No, the Lincoln MKT is no longer available for purchase.
5. Is the Lincoln Aviator a replacement for the MKT?
Yes, the Lincoln Aviator was introduced as a replacement for the discontinued MKT.
6. Will Lincoln bring back the MKT?
There are currently no plans for Lincoln to reintroduce the MKT to their lineup.
7. What other vehicles does Lincoln offer now?
Lincoln offers a range of luxury vehicles, including the Aviator, Nautilus, Corsair, and Navigator.
Why Did They Stop Making Lincoln MKT?
In the end, Lincoln’s decision to discontinue the MKT came down to poor sales figures and the brand’s desire to modernize their lineup. Navigating the fiercely competitive luxury vehicle market requires a willingness to pivot and adapt to changing consumer preferences, and ultimately, the MKT simply didn’t achieve the levels of popularity required to remain a viable option for Lincoln. Although its run was short-lived, the MKT remains a well-regarded luxury SUV that will be remembered fondly by its fans. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back for more automotive news and updates in the future.