Why did Lincoln stop making the MKT?
The Lincoln MKT, a luxury crossover SUV, was once a staple in Lincoln's lineup, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. However, in recent years, Lincoln decided to discontinue the MKT, leaving many car enthusiasts and loyal customers wondering why. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this decision and what it means for Lincoln's future.
Shifting Market Trends
One of the primary reasons Lincoln stopped producing the MKT was the shift in consumer preferences. Over the past decade, the automotive market has seen a significant move away from traditional crossover SUVs like the MKT in favor of more modern and versatile options. Customers are increasingly drawn to vehicles that offer a sleeker design, better fuel efficiency, and advanced technology features.
Introduction of the Lincoln Aviator
The introduction of the Lincoln Aviator played a significant role in the MKT's discontinuation. The Aviator, a midsize luxury SUV, was designed to replace the MKT and cater to the evolving tastes of Lincoln's customer base. It offers:
- A more contemporary and stylish design.
- Advanced technology, including a state-of-the-art infotainment system.
- Improved performance with hybrid options available.
- A focus on luxury and comfort, aligning with Lincoln's brand identity.
The Aviator's success in the market demonstrated that Lincoln made the right choice in phasing out the MKT to focus on a more competitive and appealing model.
Declining Sales of the MKT
Another factor contributing to the MKT's discontinuation was its declining sales. Over time, the MKT struggled to compete with other luxury SUVs in its class. Its design, which some critics described as outdated, and its limited appeal to younger buyers made it less competitive in a crowded market.
Focus on Brand Reinvention
Lincoln has been undergoing a brand reinvention in recent years, aiming to position itself as a leader in the luxury vehicle market. This reinvention involves streamlining its lineup to focus on models that resonate with modern consumers. By discontinuing the MKT, Lincoln was able to allocate resources to developing and marketing vehicles like the Aviator and the Navigator, which better align with its vision for the future.
Conclusion
The decision to stop making the Lincoln MKT was driven by a combination of shifting market trends, the success of the Lincoln Aviator, declining sales, and Lincoln's broader strategy to reinvent its brand. While the MKT may no longer be part of Lincoln's lineup, its legacy lives on in the form of newer, more innovative models that continue to uphold the brand's commitment to luxury and performance. For those who loved the MKT, the Aviator offers a worthy successor that embodies the best of what Lincoln has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of the Lincoln MKT?
The Lincoln MKT has an average lifespan of 170,380 miles or about 13.1 years. The MKT's predicted lifespan is derived from over 300 million data points iSeeCars analyzed to determine this model's average lifespan.
Are Lincoln MKT expensive to maintain?
According to RepairPal, it costs an average of $879 per year to maintain and repair a Lincoln model. This is lower than the average annual maintenance and repair expense for BMW ($968), Mercedes-Benz ($908), and Audi ($1,123) vehicles.
Why was Lincoln MKT discontinued?
It's never been a strong seller, mainly due to its unusual exterior design. However, the MKT has sold quite well in two particular market segments: livery services and funeral hearses. Its planned successor, the upcoming Aviator, likely won't have the same appeal for livery companies.
Why did Lincoln stop making pickup trucks?
Slow sales saw Ford stop selling the Lincoln Mark LT in North America after the release of the 2008 model truck, according to Edmund's Inside Line. It replaced the pick-up with a high-end Platinum trim version of the Ford F-150 in 2009. But the Mark LT was the maker's most successful pick-up in Mexico.
What model replaced Lincoln MKT?
Lincoln Aviator
What year is Lincoln most reliable?
When all is considered, the most reliable Lincoln MKX model years are:
- 2009 Lincoln MKX.
- 2010 Lincoln MKX.
- 2015 Lincoln MKX.
- 2016 Lincoln MKX.
- 2017 Lincoln MKX.
- 2018 Lincoln MKX.
What does MKT stand for on a Lincoln?
Touring
It is the second crossover in the Lincoln stable at the moment, positioned above the Lincoln MKX and below the full-sized Lincoln Navigator (a sports utility vehicle, not a crossover SUV). The MKT joins a list of Lincoln vehicles that start with “MK,” and the company says that the T stands for Touring.
What does MKT on a menu mean?
market
Traditionally throughout New England, and at many seafood restaurants"MKT" stands for "market" price. Hence, whatever the current retail price $ per pound is, that's what the establishment will charge.
Does Lincoln MKT need premium gas?
Most Lincoln vehicles need regular unleaded fuel at the minimum, though premium fuel is recommended for every SUV for sale at our Lincoln dealership in Plymouth, MI.
What is the Ford equivalent of the Lincoln MKT?
The Lincoln MKT is a luxury version of the Ford Flex, the retro-inspired three-row wagon that Lincoln's parent company sold throughout the 2010s. And that's not a bad thing. While the MKT ditches the Flex's funky styling in favor of a more upscale look, it retains its smooth and powerful EcoBoost powertrain.
