A recently filed Ford patent in India reveals the exterior design of a new model, adding weight and substance to the American carmaker’s presence after it scrapped plans to sell its Chennai plant in Tamil Nadu to the JSW Group. In line with Ford’s recent China-market offerings, the compact SUV features a distinctive front fascia with horizontally stacked LED daytime running lamps seamlessly integrated into a bold front grille. The main headlamp units have a vertical design and are positioned further down and towards the outside.
Blackened wheel arches add a touch of ruggedness, while the body is given a sleek profile and a contrasting black roof. Although no rear-end images are available yet, it is expected to share design cues with the latest Everest and Explorer SUVs. Significant upgrades are likely for the cabin, which promises a more sophisticated look and feel. Anticipated features include a large, floating infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, depending on the variant and trim level.
Part of a joint venture announced between Ford and Indian carmaker Mahindra in 2018, the compact SUV will reportedly be based on Ford’s VX-772 platform and will use a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine sourced from Mahindra. In return, Mahindra will also get its own SUV version of the model.
However, recent speculations suggest that the plan may have been revised somewhat in favor of Ford’s own platform and powertrain configuration. Furthermore, there are indications that a diesel powertrain option could also be in the pipeline.
Rivals include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Suzuki Grand Vitara, among others. The Ford EcoSport replacement is not expected to make a comeback in North America, Europe or Australia. However, it will likely be launched in India, South America and other developing markets.
Son Pham (forum.autodaily.vn)
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