Ford is expected to phase out the Escape SUV within the next decade, and when they do, talk from the top suggests they might usher in a new Lincoln model to replace it. Ford’s product development chief, Derrick Kuzak, admitted Ford is seriously considering adding a C-segment vehicle to the Lincoln line-up, most likely basing if off the Ford Kuga XUV currently sold abroad. Kuzak also hinted that the European small car the Ford Ka might be included in the American invasion, a prospect we are notably less than enthusiastic about.

Initially introduced last September at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the 2009 Ford Kuga sits on the same C1 platform shared by European model Ford S-Max minivan and the Ford Focus subcompact. Roughly equivalent in size to the Ford Escape, the Ford Kuga is essentially a European-badged Ford Edge, not an entirely drastic departure from Ford’s typical SUV template. What separates the Kuga from its American counterpart are its luxurious details, which would certainly be befitting of a Lincoln should the Kuga ever make it’s modified debut stateside. Bottom line: Ford Euro, how about this: give us a Lincoln/Kuga luxury crossover, and keep the Ka, please.

[News Source: Auto News]