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| The NaviCross concept that launched at the 2003 Detroit auto show in January shows promise, but a wagon-style crossover SUV similar in size and configuration to Cadillac's XRS would most likely fair better on the sales charts. (Photo: Ford Motor) |
The second would be based on the NaviCross concept that appeared in this year's Detroit show. While the design showed promise its sedan configuration is probably not suitable for garnering big sales in the crossover SUV market - Lincoln should compare Subaru's Outback sedan sales to that of its wagon and never forget how the incredibly non-functional Blackwood was uniformly rejected. They would do better to modify the NaviCross into a more functional wagon before going ahead with the design.
But even if Lincoln's new concepts get the nod for production it will be years before either sees daylight, by which time Cadillac will have more than seven models to its credit, improved perceived interior quality (necessary for its foray into Europe) and new rear-wheel drive replacements for the Seville and DeVille. Lincoln will instead be left to fight it out with Chrysler, a company that already vies for comparison.