Lincoln MKZ sales decreased in the United States, Mexico and South Korea during the first quarter of 2019.
Lincoln MKZ Sales - Q1 2019 - United States
In the United States, Lincoln MKZ deliveries totaled 4,287 units in Q1 2019, a decrease of about 2 percent compared to 4,359 units sold in Q1 2018.MODEL | Q1 2019 / Q1 2018 | Q1 2019 | Q1 2018 |
---|---|---|---|
MKZ | -1.65% | 4,287 | 4,359 |
Lincoln MKZ Sales - Q1 2019 - Mexico
In Mexico, Lincoln MKZ deliveries totaled 36 units in Q1 2019, a decrease of about 32 percent compared to 53 units sold in Q1 2018.MODEL | Q1 2019 / Q1 2018 | Q1 2019 | Q1 2018 |
---|---|---|---|
MKZ | -32.08% | 36 | 53 |
Lincoln MKZ Sales - Q1 2019 - South Korea
In South Korea, Lincoln MKZ deliveries totaled 181 units in Q1 2019, a decrease of about 36 percent compared to 284 units sold in Q1 2018.MODEL | Q1 2019 / Q1 2018 | Q1 2019 | Q1 2018 |
---|---|---|---|
MKZ | -36.27% | 181 | 284 |
Competitive Sales Comparison
Lincoln MKZ sales during the first quarter of 2019 leaves the full-size premium sedan in second place in its competitive set, behind the Lexus ES and ahead of its cross-town rival, the Buick LaCrosse (see Buick LaCrosse sales), which is being discontinued.
In addition, Lincoln MKZ sales fell 10 times less than the segment average during the quarter, which was primarily due to the sheer drop in LaCross sales volume. As such, the MKZ was able to increase its segment share from 21 to 23 percent during the first quarter of 2019.
Sales Numbers - Large Premium Comfort Sedans - Q1 2019 - United States
MODEL | Q1 19 / Q1 18 | Q1 19 | Q1 18 | Q1 19 SHARE | Q1 18 SHARE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
LEXUS ES | +22.96% | 11,390 | 9,263 | 61% | 45% |
LINCOLN MKZ | -1.65% | 4,287 | 4,359 | 23% | 21% |
BUICK LACROSSE | -58.93% | 2,902 | 7,066 | 16% | 34% |
TOTAL | -10.19% | 18,579 | 20,688 |
The large premium comfort sedan segment contracted 10 percent to 18,579 units in Q1 2019.
The Ford Authority Take
We attribute the continuously disappointing Lincoln MKZ sales results to the ongoing change in consumer buying dynamics that favors crossover utility vehicles (CUVs/SUVs) over sedans. Going forward, we expect MKZ deliveries to continue at their current, depressed pace so long as the crossover craze continues. There is a potential for an uptick in future sales performance once the Buick LaCrosse is discontinued, but we don’t imagine it being long-lasting.
It’s worthy to mention that Lexus is defying all odds and market trends and has managed to boost sales of the ES, which is all-new for the 2019 model year.
About The Numbers
- All percent change figures compared to Lincoln MKZ Q1 2018 sales
- In the United States, there were 76 selling days in Q1 2019 and 76 selling days in Q1 2019
Comments
Ford and Lincoln are making a big mistake here. Their hybrid versions are good sellers (I own a 2014 Fusion Hybrid) and they compete against Toyota hybrid sedans, sometime selling more than the Prius which is a hybrid compact.
If Ford and Lincoln abandon these sedans, the market falls to the cheap imports. Are you sure you WANT to abandon this market??
“It’s worthy to mention that Lexus is defying all odds and market trends and has managed to boost sales of the ES, which is all-new for the 2019 model year.”
The key is all-new. The current Z is from 2013. Don’t be surprised that sales are not off the charts.
Are they still offering that six speed automatic? It’s telling that Lexus ES is outselling the MKZ, and for good reason. Lincoln lost the plot years ago by selling mediocre cars and now they will never be able to catch up. No one to blame but themselves.