I think that's the way it's heading in the future for most manufacturers who offer several 'brands'. VWs modular platform is based on using some of the same components on a VW, Audi, Porsche to cut costs and increase profits. But VW is not that picky about the sheetmetal being too close to an Audi design. Actually I think VW uses Audi design to give VW designs more stature. BMW has Mini to share with, and MB without a mass market consumer brand is sharing with Toyota...all to save costs.

But just looking at VW/Audi vs Ford/Lincoln, there is a greater differentiation between Ford/Lincoln new models than VW/Audi models in general. When you think about it, starting with a great platform, and building an even better luxury car is not a bad idea.

There are downsides to any endeavor. Lincoln starts with a mass market Ford platform that is not significantly updated for premium level duty. This obviously results in Lincoln's being more affordable to build, but not nearly as unique as most of it's competition.

VW on the other hand finds itself in the reverse position IMO. VW cars tend to be more expensive than their mass market competition as I believe their platforms begin with their premium brands in mind, thus being more expensive to build and buy.

Finally, I don't know how you can say that Audi/VW are less differentiated than Lincoln/Ford, I just don't see it.

"Ford recently unveiled the next-generation 2016 Taurus at the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show. Although the car will be marketed as a full-on luxury sedan in China, including power-reclining rear seats with massage and rear-seat climate and communications controls, the North American version is expected to continue to compete directly with the Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Charger/ Chrysler 300 duo and the Toyota Avalon in content and price. Rear-seat passenger space should benefit from an eight-centimetre gain in distance between the front and rear wheels, although overall length will shrink by about 15 centimetres. Also expected is a twin-turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder base engine plus twin-turbo 2.7- and 3.5-litre V-6s, the latter installed in the high-output Taurus SHO.

- See more at: http://www.timescolonist.com/the-auto-sleuth-new-taurus-gets-luxury-billing-for-china-1.1949277#sthash.bCAyZDOm.dpuf"

^ -but
I really doubt the 3.5EB being in it

Motor Trend isn't the most reliable source of information, but the new issue says it will debut in the US in spring 2016 with the 2.0L as standard and the 2.7 and 3.5 as optional. I do doubt it will have the 3.5.

Ah, sounds like a huge improvement there! But [email protected] inches and centimeters, pick one and stick with it!

I really hope the Taurus will not only make it back to the US, but also make a bigger impact than the current one. And of course the one I'm most interested in is the SHO...

I am seriously jonesing for a new SHO, the current (old) Taurus does not float my boat at all. I can't believe how long they've allowed the Taurus platform to whither on the vine, feels like an eternity ago that the Charger/300 starting kicking serious Taurus butt.