Lincoln Motor Co. told dealers on Sunday it's targeting 20 percent retail sales growth in 2020 behind redesigned crossovers such as the Corsair and Aviator.
Lincoln's overall sales, which include retail and fleet, rose 8.3 percent in 2019. Executives are hoping the 2020 retail growth comes from a full year of Aviator sales plus the addition of the upcoming Corsair plug-in hybrid. Other vehicles such as the Navigator and Nautilus continue to sell well, too.
The brand's make meeting was mostly positive, dealers who attended told Automotive News, with questions focusing on facilities requirements, sales targets and future product plans.
"We're talking about growth," said Tom Lynch, chairman of the Lincoln National Dealer Council, although he didn't provide a sales estimate. "This year, we're going to have some great news."
Some dealers, including those on the dealer council, have expressed concerns that Lincoln was abandoning a crucial luxury segment by announcing last month the impending death of the MKZ. Dealers at the meeting Sunday said the brand did not provide further details about any potential new products, including an upcoming battery-electric vehicle developed with startup Rivian.
Another major topic of discussion: the controversial Lincoln Dealer Commitment Program requiring retailers who opt in to build standalone showrooms.
The New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers said in January that it was suing Ford Motor Co. and Lincoln over what it says are illegal discounts given to certain retailers who comply with the program.
Lincoln President Joy Falotico said Sunday that Lincoln had no plans to make further changes to the program. The brand had paused it in late 2018 and relaunched last year after making some tweaks following dealer feedback.
"We're comfortable where we're at with the program," she said.
"It's based off customer feedback that they're looking for brand-exclusive facilities."
