Seemingly not content with letting the likes of the Toyota Etios Cross and Renault Sandero Stepway have all the cross-hatch fun, Ford has taken the wraps off its new Figo-based Freestyle model.
Presented to the press in South America (it will later this year hit the market in Brazil and Argentina) and India at the same time, Ford describes the Freestyle as a “global project developed with the participation of several countries to serve different markets”.
It’s not yet clear whether South Africa is one of those markets, with Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa’s official line being that it has “no plans” to introduce the new model here “at this stage”. Still, we suspect the brand is currently at least considering it, even if the newcomer may potentially tread on the toes of the EcoSport.
The FreeStyle is set apart from the standard Figo hatchback (which is also known as the Ka in some markets) thanks to its raised ride height, model-specific bumpers, a new finish for the grille, black-masked headlamps and, of course, obligatory black plastic body cladding. You’ll also notice roof rails in a metallic finish and faux-skid-plates front and rear.
Ford says that it will reveal more details about the Freestyle – including information about its cabin, engine options (although early reports from India suggest a new 1,2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and the familiar 1,5 diesel mill will be in the range) and technical specifications, such as exact ride height – at a later stage.
