We weren't the only ones surprised when Ford announced in 2017 that both its all-new Explorer and the Lincoln Aviator will share a newly developed rear-wheel-drive platform. It turns out Lincoln also once had plans to further utilize this platform to underpin a new performance sedan. Lincoln boss Joy Falotico canned that while early in development because, as we know by now, sedans are far less popular than ever.

But The Drive first noticed something in the latest print issue of the Motor Trend "MT Confidential" column. That RWD architecture will supposedly instead be used to underpin a series of Mustang-branded performance crossovers with coupe-like styling. One of the reported main targets is none other than the BMW X4. According to the MT report, these crossovers will not only strongly resemble a taller, four-door version of the Mustang, but could be as powerful as non-Shelby versions of the muscle car.

In that case, output could be anywhere from 300 to 500 hp. Does this mean the 5.0-liter V8 from the Mustang GT will be used? Not necessarily. A far more likely engine candidate for the top trim CUV would be the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6. We also need to emphasize that all of this is merely a rumor for now. Nothing has been confirmed and we don't expect Ford would even be willing to comment at this point.

However, a crossover like this and a more luxurious Lincoln counterpart does make an awful lot of sense. Remember, Ford is in the process of ditching conventional cars like the Focus and Fusion in favor of more trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. The Mustang is, of course, safe. But why not combine two things that Ford does best?

On top of that, Ford spent a big chunk of change developing that RWD architecture for its new SUVs so it only makes sense to maximize economies of scale. This rumored BMW X4 fighter would be a different vehicle than the Mustang-inspired EV crossover currently in the works, rumored to be called Mach 1. Not too long ago the thought of Mustang-inspired crossovers and EVs seemed pretty farfetched but, then again, so did the idea that the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, and Taurus would all be discontinued.