Is Mercury a part of Ford?
Mercury was a distinct brand within Ford Motor Company, positioned between Ford and Lincoln, but it is no longer active; Ford discontinued the brand around 2010.
Mercury's role within Ford
Mercury was launched in 1938 as a separate division of Ford to offer a step up from standard Ford models while staying below Lincoln in price and prestige. For decades it operated as an independent brand with its own styling, dealer network, and model lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of features and value that was more premium than Ford but not as luxury-focused as Lincoln. Over the years, Mercury produced a mix of sedans, coupes, wagons, and some SUVs, including well-known nameplates that became staples of the brand.
Key milestones in Mercury's history are summarized below:
- 1938: Mercury brand introduced as a distinct division of Ford Motor Company
- Mid-20th century: Built up a loyal dealer network and a recognizable mid-range lineup
- 1960s–1990s: Produced popular models such as the Grand Marquis, Sable, Capri, and Mountaineer, expanding into SUVs and coupes
- 1990s–2000s: Faced intensifying competition and brand consolidation within Ford's portfolio
- 2010: Ford announced the discontinuation of the Mercury brand; production of Mercury-branded vehicles wound down
- 2010–2011: The last Mercury models rolled off production lines as the brand was phased out
In summary, Mercury served as a stand-alone brand within Ford for much of its history, but it ceased to exist as an active brand after 2010, marking the end of its era in Ford's lineup.
Discontinuation and current status
The decision to end the Mercury brand was part of Ford's broader restructuring during the late 2000s financial downturn. Ford publicly announced the phase-out of Mercury and began winding down dealer allocations and production. The brand's remaining vehicles were sold through the existing Mercury network until production ceased around 2010–2011. Today, there is no active Mercury division within Ford, and Mercury remains a part of Ford's historical portfolio rather than its current product lineup.
The following developments outline Mercury's discontinuation and its aftermath:
- Ford announced the phase-out of Mercury as part of its restructuring efforts in the late 2000s
- Production of Mercury-branded vehicles ended around 2010, with the last model years rolling off the line by 2011 in some cases
- The Mercury dealer network was reduced and ultimately closed for new-vehicle sales
- The Mercury name lives on in Ford's corporate history and among enthusiasts, but there are no current Ford-branded Mercury vehicles
Legacy and current status
Mercury's legacy persists in automotive history and among collectors, but the brand no longer exists as an active division. Ford continues to reference Mercury in historical contexts and branding discussions, yet there are no plans to revive the Mercury name for new vehicles.
Summary
Mercury was once Ford Motor Company's distinct mid-range brand, created to bridge Ford and Lincoln. It operated for many decades before Ford discontinued the brand around 2010, ending Mercury’s production and dealer presence. Today, Mercury lives on only in the historical record and among enthusiasts, not as an active component of Ford's current lineup.
Is Lincoln owned by Ford?
Yes, Lincoln is owned by Ford. The Ford Motor Company acquired the Lincoln Motor Company in 1922, and Lincoln has operated as a luxury vehicle division of Ford ever since.
- Acquisition: Henry Ford's company purchased Lincoln in 1922 for $8 million.
- Relationship: Lincoln has continued to operate as a separate brand, but it is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ford.
- Shared technology: Lincoln vehicles benefit from Ford's manufacturing, research, and technology, including shared platforms and engines.
Is Mercury Chevy or Ford?
Mercury was a brand of medium-priced automobiles that was produced by American manufacturer Ford Motor Company between the 1939 and 2011 motor years.
What brands does Ford own?
Ford currently owns the Ford and Lincoln brands. It also markets auto parts under the Motorcraft brand name. Ford used to own other brands like Mercury, Edsel, and Volvo (prior to 2010), but it no longer does.
- Ford: The company's primary automotive brand, known for models like the F-150 and Mustang.
- Lincoln: Ford's luxury automotive brand, which it has owned since 1922.
- Motorcraft: The brand under which Ford markets its auto parts.
Former brands that Ford no longer owns:
- Troller: Ford previously owned the Brazilian off-road vehicle manufacturer Troller, which was sold in 2021.
- Mercury: The Mercury brand was discontinued in 2010.
- Volvo: Ford sold its controlling interest in Volvo Cars in 2010.
- Mazda: Ford sold most of its stake in Mazda by 2015 and is no longer a part owner.
Does Ford own Mercury?
Yes, Ford Motor Company previously owned the Mercury brand, but it was discontinued in 2011. Ford phased out the brand to focus on its Ford and Lincoln models.
- Ownership history: Ford established Mercury in 1938 to sit between its main Ford line and its luxury Lincoln brand.
- Reason for discontinuation: Sales declined, and Ford decided to discontinue the brand to concentrate on the growth of the Ford and Lincoln brands.
- End of production: The last Mercury vehicle, a Grand Marquis, was produced in January 2011.
