When Lincoln Said Goodbye to Pickup Trucks
Lincoln, typically celebrated for its full-size luxury sedans and SUVs, ventured into the pickup truck market with two models: the Lincoln Blackwood (2002) and the Lincoln Mark LT (2006-2014). These vehicles emerged during a significant shift in the automotive world, as the luxury pickup truck began to gain traction. Ford hoped to capitalize on this trend, spurred by the success of its redesigned 1997 F-150. However, Lincoln’s pickup truck journey ended in disappointment.
The Blackwood’s Brief Run
The 2002 Lincoln Blackwood, an eccentric offering in the pickup truck world, struggled to find its audience. Despite Lincoln’s initial goal of selling 10,000 Blackwoods annually, only 3,066 units were sold. This unusual truck essentially combined F-series functionality with traditional Lincoln luxury.
The Blackwood’s bed was largely cosmetic, with a hydraulically operated hard tonneau cover limiting cargo space and an interior lined with carpet and fancy trim.
This created a significant compromise for those seeking a capable pickup. The Blackwood’s high price tag (around $52,000 in 2002, equivalent to nearly $92,000 today) further hindered its appeal, particularly given the limited utility it offered.
Mark LT: Refining the Formula
Launched in 2006, the Lincoln Mark LT attempted to refine the formula. Like the Blackwood, the Mark LT was built on the Ford F-series platform, featuring a V8 engine and a luxurious interior. While the Mark LT’s first model year saw sales of 10,274 units, falling short of expectations, it still outperformed the Blackwood.
Ford ceased U.S. production of the Mark LT in 2008, replacing it with the 2009 Ford F-150 Platinum. However, production continued in Mexico, where the truck found more success. The second-generation Mark LT, exclusive to Mexico, remained in production until 2014, marking the end of Lincoln’s pickup truck production.
The Luxury Pickup Truck Today
Today, luxury pickup trucks are commonplace among the “Big Three” U.S. automakers. The industry has adapted to the growing demand for luxury SUVs, with each company offering feature-rich pickup truck models. The failed experiments of the Lincoln Blackwood and Mark LT served as early attempts to tap into this evolving market.
