Earlier this week, Ford revealed the new, seventh-generation Fiesta range, including a fresh “Active” variant that will take on the likes of the Volkswagen Cross Polo. And now the automaker has hinted at plans to roll out similar SUV-styled variants of other cars in its line-up.
The new Fiesta Active features a raised ride-height, roof bars and black body cladding. And we can expect other models to come in for similar treatment over the next few years.
“We came to the conclusion that for many people this is their idea of a stylish Fiesta,” Joseph Bakaj, Ford of Europe’s product development boss, told Automotive News Europe.
Ford’s European chief Jim Farley, meanwhile, hinted that other models – such as the Focus and perhaps even the Fusion (which is badged Mondeo in Europe) – could follow in the Fiesta Active’s footsteps.
“I think we’ll continue to look at this,” Farley told AutoExpress. “The Fiesta is going to be step one.”
Farley added that he didn’t except the Fiesta Active to take much of a bite out of EcoSport sales.
“I don’t envisage there being any real crossover between Fiesta Active customers and EcoSport buyers,” Farley told the UK publication.
“We have the EcoSport as a B-SUV – but I really think the Active could be enough of an SUV for a lot of people, particularly those who just want a higher seating position more than really high ground clearance.”
Ford Motor Company of SA, meanwhile, has been cagey about exactly when the new Fiesta range will reach our shores, and indeed which variants will be on offer. Still, we’d be surprised if the Fiesta Active did not eventually make its way here…
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