Ford’s Compact Utility Vehicle (CUV) – Freestyle is finally here. Launched at a starting price of Rs 5.09 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Ford Freestyle is essentially the crossover version of the Figo hatchback. Though, it gets new exterior and interior styling and an all-new dragon series petrol engine. Here’re five things you need to know about the Freestyle.
1. Positioning & Prices
The Freestyle is the first crossover from the American carmaker in the country. In Ford India’s product lineup, this new crossover will be slotted between the Figo hatchback and EcoSport subcompact SUV. Prices of the vehicle start from Rs 5.09 lakh and go all the way up to Rs 7.89 lakh (all, ex-showroom, Delhi). While the petrol trims have been priced from Rs 5.09 lakh to Rs 6.94 lakh, the diesel variants range from Rs 6.09 lakh to Rs 7.89 lakh (all, ex-showroom Delhi). Read: Ford Freestyle – Positives & Negatives
2. New Petrol Engine
Engine setup of the crossover includes a new 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol and the tried and tested 1.5-litre diesel unit. The all-aluminum gasoline motor delivers the best-in-class power (94bhp) and torque (120Nm) outputs, and works really well on low rpms. The oil burner, on the other hand, delivers power worth 99bhp and 215Nm of torque. Both the powertrains are available with a 5-speed manual gearbox. As of now, there is no option for an automatic unit. Read – Ford Freestyle Accessories Explained
3. Class-leading Safety Features
The Freestyle is surely the most safety features loaded car in its category. Features such as six airbags, electronic stability programme (ESP), Hill launch assist, traction control system (TCS) and front and rear foglamps are reserved for the top-spec variants. The SYNC 3 infotainment system, which is offered on the Titanium+ trim, provides emergency assistance. The list of standard safety equipment includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, speed sense lock, reverse parking sensors, door ajar warning, seat belt reminder, four 3-point seat belts and lap belt for rear middle passenger and anti-theft alarm. Check Out – Upcoming Ford Cars in India
4. Best-in-class Ground Clearance
The crossover stands tall on ground clearance of 190mm that puts it in the category of Hyundai Creta, Mahindra XUV500 and Jeep Compass. In fact, its ground clearance is higher than the Mahindra Scorpio. This makes it more compatible for rough Indian terrains.
5. Crossover Styling
Sporting a new Mustang-inspired hexagonal grille, black plastic and body cladding and roof rails, the Freestyle looks very crossover-ish. Though, it shares most of its bits with its donor hatchback. Elements such as blacked out high contrast on the front bumper, sweptback headlamps, fog lap bezel and black alloys add more to its sporty appearance. The crossover, however, misses out on some fancy bits such as projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights. Read – 2019 Ford Endeavour Facelift Revealed In New Pictures
Related Video – Ford Freestyle Review
