The Mustang could use a styling intervention. I think part of the reason why Mustang sales have slumped is due to the more evolutionary approach to its styling. It has looked pretty similar since 2015.
Don't think I've seen this posted here yet. Interesting turn of events...
https://fordauthority.com/2025/06/ford-partner-vw-will-use-rivian-r2-platform-for-all-future-evs/
I think we've had this conversation before, but I don't see how making it more compelling and more in demand with the same supply wouldn't enable then to push ATPs even higher and therefor margins. Obviously some info we're not privy to (and see your point that maybe the R&D can't be recouped at that volume), but hard to believe it wouldn't be able to have better margins than a superduty when it's mostly just software/tech that they get for pennies relative to what they sell it for. Either way it is pretty disappointing and frustrating that Lincoln gets the 'good enough' treatment again, even after all the talk and separating from Ford hoopla.
I'm mostly thinking of bronco and mustang, as those are two of Ford's best passion products at the moment, and both are virtually guaranteed to have a next generation.
For mustang, I personally believe they should keep the 60s inspiration, it's a lot more timeless than say mustangs from the 80s or 90s that are fads in one moment, and out the next. 60s styling has always looked good, and always will, that's what mustang should pattern itself after instead of chasing styling trends. These are cars that'll be at car shows in 50 years, make them timeless and striking.
In terms of what I'd love to see, it basically boils down to a reduction in visual mass. Lowering the roof by maybe 2 inches, and the beltline by an inch or so, so you have less metal over the wheels. Push the wheels to the corners and really shrink the overhangs, especially in the front. Give the mustang an even longer hood to sell that seductive look.
Basically a 1967 Shelby gt 500 in terms of lines, and an Aston Martin in terms of proportions and sexy surfacing would make for a great looking car imo. Something like this image with slightly sharper lines to sell the muscle car look while also looking striking and more exotic. Make the mustang look so good that people stop complaining about paying 60k for a gt, make a design that makes 60k feel like a bargain.
2025 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator Recalled Over Faulty Air Bags
Ford Motor Company is recalling select 2025 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs over faulty passenger side air bags.
https://fordauthority.com/2025/07/2025-ford-expedition-lincoln-navigator-recalled-over-faulty-air-bags/
Car and Driver considers Hyundai and Kia EV sales in 2025 under loser category, so probably nothing specific to worry about, other than just being competition. Like Ford their non-EV sales did much better.
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/g65277687/auto-sales-q2-2025-winners-losers/
Regarding China threat, IMO much depends on government intervention. Without tariffs or other hurdles, Chinese could build a plant in US and sell entry-level affordable cars that may be successful. It will be interesting to follow how the BYD Dolphin Mini does in Brazil, and also who in their population ends up buying them. Will it be mostly low income, or young, or environmentalists-minded, or will it appeal to a broad segment of society for other reasons?
I think Infiniti would be a difficult division to continue funding (for a cash strapped company like Nissan) as it doesn't have a global presence of any significance. At least brands like Buick and Lincoln have China to help generate some sales volume.