The Lincoln lineup is in desperate need of a design intervention, and Automotive News reports that help is on the way. Ford product development boss Derrick Kuzak reportedly told dealers that Lincoln will receive seven new or refreshed models by 2014, including a little love for the long-ignored Lincoln Navigator.

The Navigator will reportedly receive the twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine option for the 2012 model year, giving large luxury SUV buyers a more fuel efficient option. The Navigator could also receive some design tweaks, but we're not expecting anything close to a full redesign.

The Lincoln sedan lineup will also get some attention, with the MKS and MKZ receiving substantial updates for the 2013 model year. The MKZ will reportedly be completely remade, with all-new sheetmetal that should look very little like its Ford Fusion counterpart. The MKS will also distance itself from its more pedestrian platform-sharing Ford Taurus, with a sleeker design and more premium materials.

Lincoln may also diversify their crossover offerings, including a new compact 'ute based off the Ford Focus platform that should arrive during the 2013 model year. The MKX, which was just re-penned for 2011, is also scheduled to receive an all-new platform based off Ford's global mid-size architecture for 2014. The MKT could receive a minor refresh for 2013, but then again Ford could wind up ditching the big crossover altogether or relegate sales of the model to livery and fleet customers.

A key component to future Lincoln redesigns will be minimizing any connection between the luxury make and any Ford siblings. Changes could include far more differentiated sheetmetal, different wheelbases and unique powertrains.Lincoln planning seven new/improved models, includes Navigator EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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