FORD is to launch the famous American Lincoln luxury car brand in Britain early next year. But it is believed the Lincoln LS6 and LS8 are to be pitched significantly higher upmarket than the Scorpio, which is to bow out of production at Cologne in June.

Last month Ford announced that the Scorpio was being axed, although it is likely to remain on sale in Britain until stocks run out at around the end of the year. Ford's move to import the Lincoln mirrors General Motors' decision to market the Cadillac in the UK executive sector from next month.

V6 and V8 versions of the latest luxury sports saloon are to go on sale at prices expected to range from £25,000 to £30,000. Unveiled at the New York Motor Show on Tuesday, the 3.0- litre and 3.9-litre cars are to go on sale across Europe and in Japan as part of the company's aim to win more international business.