Rear-Wheel Drive Is In Lincoln’s Future, But Not As A High-End Sedan

Lincoln may finally get a rear-wheel drive platform that isn’t related to a truck, but it doesn’t appear to be in the form of a luxury sedan like crosstown rival Cadillac.

A rear-wheel drive Lincoln is expected to take shape as a crossover for Ford’s luxury brand, according to sources close to The Truth About Cars. This future Lincoln crossover would share underpinnings with some future Ford, also a crossover.

The only current Lincoln to be rear-wheel drive-based is the Navigator SUV, while all other models use Ford’s front-wheel drive architecture, with optional all-wheel drive.

TTAC‘s reasoning is backed up by the valid point sales of traditional sedans are slipping, while the crossover market is growing. This is especially true among mainstream brands like Ford. It’s also a bold step that might make Lincoln stand out a little more in the ever-crowded luxury market.

Where this RWD Lincoln crossover would fit in the lineup is a little murky, considering the MKX isn’t going anywhere based on the recent concept. If I had to guess, it means the MKT will be axed in favor of this rumored vehicle, which probably means the Ford Flex is toast, too.

But hey, a rear-wheel drive Lincoln wagon-y crossover with a turbo engine up front sounds kind of fun, right?

By Zac Estrada

Lincoln concept sedan renderings from Brian Malczewski & Colin Bonathan