In 2010, Lincoln announced ambitious plans to launch seven new models in the U.S. market by 2014. Most of the models were to be updates of existing cars, though two brand new additions were also mooted: a compact car and a compact crossover.

We’ve already seen concept versions of both cars in the form of the C hatch from 2009 and the MKC crossover unveiled earlier this year, however, only the MKC crossover been confirmed for production.

Lincoln has been quiet on plans for its second compact.

While we still hold on to hope Lincoln will eventually launch a new rear-wheel-drive sedan, it’s more likely we’ll see a new compact sedan based on the front-wheel-drive Ford Focus platform.

Speaking with Reuters, a person familiar with Lincoln’s plans said a near-premium sedan was being considered for launch in 2016 or later. Such a model would target other near-premium compact sedans such as the Acura ILX, Buick Verano and Mercedes-Benz CLA Class.

Rather than focus on creating new halo models, Lincoln is reportedly targeting high volume segments in order to boost sales. In a presentation shown to investors, Ford officials reportedly showed in a chart that they expect premium compact car and crossover segments to exhibit the most growth over the next decade.

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