Add Substance to the Latest Rumors

[FamilyRide]

The rumors around the future of the Excursion have been pretty quiet until now.

Over on TDS someone posted a reply he got about a week ago from Ford Customer Service stating that the Excursion would indeed be removed from the line-up at the end of 2004. Leaving room for speculation that a few 2005 year models would be the end of it if not end of 2004 models.

Well, I heard another rumor, and here are links to validate it.

This one in Detroit Auto News
and
This one in Detroit Free Press

Again, here's my take. Ford is still trying to put together a small diesel engine. The new Expedition needs a few couple years to get "golden" before stretching out it's wheelbase which by then hopfully they would have a Baby PSD.

The Excursion is a cash cow in a niche market so they can justify, and need to, keep filling that void until the new Expy is ready to compete with the Sub. Once that's done, the Excursion is gone. Could be 2006 could be 2007. All depends on where they can get with a smaller SUV that can compete in the emerging market which has to have a small, powerful diesel that meets the strict US emission standards.

On a side note, I'm guessing the current Super Duty's days are numbered as well. I bet we see the new 2004 F150 become THE Ford truck platform in about the same time frame. Both scenerios allow consolidation of assembly lines, parts etc. Effieciency! Ford, GM and Dodge have some good competition in the truck arena coming on strong from Japan. They have to do something.....

<wipes spilled Crown Royal off first then packs up crystal ball, and sits down>

[RDY2RAC]

considering the profit margin that the excursion has ($10,000 a unit) it would be a hard sell not to make them even if it is a couple hundred a month. its to big of a money maker not to make them. i just bought a 04 limited and saved $9300 on a-plan.

[FamilyRide]

I hear that.

By the way, I buy A Plan as well. Was there any additional A Plan incentive out on the 2004 yet? $1500 retail rebate and I've heard there is an additional $500 customer cash rebate or something like that. Anything else? '04's are upped in price enough that the $1500 rebate just coveres the increase. Of course there are a few minor changes but not $1500 worth.

[J-150]

I think the SuperDuty is staying put. It leaves Ford a second truck for those that hate the look of the F150.

I also agree on the Expy not being ready to replace the Excursion.