New Mid-Sized Ford SUV in the Works; To Rival Hyundai Creta
We reported earlier that Ford is readying an all-new C-segment SUV, which will be co-developed by Mahindra-Ford. The new SUV will be based on the all-new monocoque front-wheel-drive platform, which will also underpin the next-gen XUV500. What’s interesting is that Ford Motor Company is also developing an all-new mid-sized SUV, which will be based on an all-new platform.
Internally called B745, the new SUV will measure around 4.3 meter in length. The new SUV will enter into the highly competitive segment, which is dominated by the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Hector and the Tata Harrier.
It will be one of three Ford SUVs planned for the Indian market. In fact, Mahindra will also develop a new mid-sized SUV using Ford’s platform. The Mahindra’s version of the SUV is reportedly to be called the Mahindra XUV400, codenamed S204. For people not in the know, Ford and Mahindra have entered into a joint venture in India to jointly develop, market and produce Ford cars in India.
While the platform and assembly line will be shared between Ford and Mahindra, the design and driving dynamics of both SUVs will be different. The new SUV will use the Mahindra’s engines, which include new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol, a 1.5-litre mStallion petrol and a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine. Not just platform and engines, the SUVs will share the interior components including the touchscreen infotainment system.
Talking about the Ford’s C-SUV, the new model will share the engine line-up with the next-gen Mahindra XUV500. Scheduled to be unveiled in 2021, the new SUV will be offered with 2 engine options – a 2.0-litre turbo diesel and a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol. While the former will produce around 180bhp and 400Nm, the turbo petrol offers 190bhp and 380Nm of torque. Transmission choices are likely to include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
