- Ford’s new subcompact SUV emerges through leaked patents, aimed at regaining a foothold in India, South America and other developing markets.
- While maintaining affordability, the new small SUV is anticipated to deliver substantial interior enhancements compared to the EcoSport.
- Borrows styling cues from recent Ford offerings in both America and China, featuring a bold grille and stacked LED DRLs.
Unlike the dim, dark ages of automotive history, there’s a notion that fundamentally substandard cars are no longer a thing. To those I challenge: go drive an EcoSport and observe your soul departing faster than a top-fuel dragster leaving the tree. Cheap it may be, but cheerful? Not so much.
Fortunately, Ford aims to redeem itself with an all-new, sub-compact crossover designed for emerging markets. A patent image filed in India has revealed the look of the new car, adding further weight to the consensus that the automaker is poised to re-establish its presence in India after abandoning plans to sell its Chennai plant in Tamil Nadu to JSW Group.
Polished Proportions
In line with Ford’s recent offerings for the Chinese market, the small SUV boasts a distinctive front fascia characterized by horizontally stacked LED daytime running lights (DRLs) seamlessly integrated into a bold front grille. The main headlamps feature a vertically shaped design positioned further down and outboard, adding to its appeal.
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Black wheel arch cladding enhances its rugged aesthetic, complemented by sculpted lower doors, pronounced rear haunches, and a contrasting black roof. While images of the rear are currently unavailable, it’s anticipated to feature a design akin to the latest Everest and Explorer SUVs.
A Nicer Outlook
The original EcoSport was notable for its crude cabin plastics and iffy switchgear; it was so substandard that you could see blobs of excess plastic sticking out of the dashboard along where the injection mould seams would have been.
Fortunately, significant improvements are expected in the cabin, promising a more refined look and feel. Anticipated features include a prominent infotainment touchscreen display, digital instrument cluster, 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and compatibility with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, depending on the chosen specification and trim level.
Under The Skin
As part of a joint venture announced in 2018 between the Blue Oval and Indian automaker Mahindra, the subcompact SUV will reportedly be based on Ford’s VX-772 platform, utilizing Mahindra’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In exchange, Mahindra would also get its own version of the SUV.
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However, recent speculation indicates that this plan might have been partially revised in favor of an all-Ford powertrain and platform configuration. Additionally, there are indications that a diesel powertrain option could be under consideration.
Rivals and Reveal
Rivals include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and Honda Elevate.
Ford’s EcoSport replacement is not expected to make a comeback in North America, Europe, or Australia. However, it is likely to debut in Indian and South American markets, with a reveal anticipated in the coming months.
Would you love to see the EcoSport return? Share your views in the comments below.
Note: This story contains illustrations that are not endorsed by or affiliated with Ford.
