Lincoln to End MKS Production After 2016 Model Year
Lincoln will phase out its MKS saloon after the 2016 model year, clearing the way for a new flagship as the Continental concept edges closer to production.
Lincoln will discontinue its MKS saloon after the 2016 model year, with production at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant ending next year. The move comes as the brand prepares to introduce a new flagship, previewed by the Continental concept shown at the 2015 New York International Auto Show.
Ford confirmed the decision as it marked the addition of the Ford Explorer to the Chicago plant’s line-up. The factory will continue to build the Ford Taurus, Explorer and Police Interceptor models after the MKS is phased out. Lincoln said it will adjust production to match demand as the MKS exits the range.
Falling sales and changing priorities
The MKS has struggled to attract buyers in recent years. Through May 2015, Lincoln delivered just 3,300 units, a drop of 19.1 percent compared to the same period in 2014. The previous year saw a decline of 24.4 percent from 2013. By contrast, Lincoln’s overall deliveries were up 4.1 percent for the first five months of 2015, suggesting the MKS was out of step with the rest of the line-up.
The MKS, introduced in 2008, never matched the sales or cachet of its German and Japanese rivals. Its platform and styling drew criticism for lacking distinction from mainstream Ford models. With the Continental concept, Lincoln aims to reposition itself in the premium saloon segment with a more distinctive and upmarket offering.
Continental concept to take flagship role
Lincoln executives have avoided confirming the Continental as the direct MKS successor, but the timing and positioning make the transition clear. The Continental concept revives a well-known name from Lincoln’s past and signals a fresh design direction. The brand faces renewed competition in the segment, with Cadillac preparing to launch the CT6 saloon in the same timeframe.
- Lincoln MKS (production ends after 2016)
- Lincoln Continental concept (expected production model)
- Cadillac CT6 (new rival launching soon)
The Chicago Assembly Plant’s future is secured for now, with continued output of other Ford and Police models. For Lincoln, the end of the MKS marks a shift in strategy as it seeks to rebuild its image in the luxury market with a new flagship saloon.
