After the demise of the EcoSport, Ford's most affordable crossover role went to the bigger Escape in North America. But fret not, subcompact crossover lovers, as the Blue Oval is already planning a successor to its small high-rider, albeit with a market twist.
The upcoming Ford EcoSport (name unconfirmed) is expected to launch in emerging markets. Reports speak of it going on sale in South America, India, and other markets, so this means it won't come back to Europe, North America, or Australia.
It is yet unknown what lies beneath the skin, despite the model allegedly launching in roughly one year. The original data discussed it being the lovechild of Ford's and Mahindra's joint venture, supposedly utilizing the latter company's 1.5-liter turbo-four. As you can assume, Mahindra would've also gotten its own version of the subcompact crossover.
However, more recent information speculates that this move could've been partially revised. A Ford platform configuration and the Dearborn automaker's powertrain could be the foundation stones of the upcoming EcoSport. Additional details also bring a diesel lump into discussion, which would make sense, given that low-revving mills are still popular overseas.
Photo: Kolesa
But what about the looks? Well, a recently leaked patent image shows its evolutionary and more upscale styling. Using this sketch as a starting point, the peeps at Kolesa have imagined what the model might look like. And we've got to admit that it is a more interesting proposal compared to the unexciting EcoSport – not that its replacement will be exciting.
The model has slightly boxier proportions and a brand-new face inspired by other fresh Fords sold worldwide. The split headlamp arrangement continues, albeit in a different form, with the DRLs being positioned below the hood and above the main clusters. The grille has become significantly wider, and the lower air intake in the front bumper is also more generous in size.
Out back, it has more modern-looking taillights and a sexier tailgate, bumper, and diffuser. Ford has also given it new lines on its profile, and to no one's surprise, the roofline is only a tiny bit arched towards the rear, meaning that the rear headroom and cargo area won't be affected. It rides on larger wheels and seems bigger than the EcoSport, so we'd look for more space inside.
Speaking of the cabin, we expect the all-new subcompact crossover to look and feel more modern, perhaps with slightly more upscale materials being used throughout the cockpit. It will likely pack a digital gauge cluster, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charging pad, smartphone connectivity, and others, as well as improved safety gizmos.
Overall, the EcoSport's successor should be an interesting subcompact crossover, and we kind of wish Ford would bring it to North America. Do you?
After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s. Full profile
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