Christmas lunch would hardly have settled in our tummies and many will still be recovering from a New Year’s bash when Ford will be back to business and previewing its next “global vehicle” at the Delhi Auto Expo during the first week of January 2012.
The all-new vehicle is expected to be the EcoSport CUV (compact utility vehicle, or crossover) and will possibly be based on the Ford Fiesta, which was the first of Ford’s so-called global vehicles and launched under the “One Ford” banner.
According to the Blue Oval, the latest car has been designed to “help expand Ford’s footprint in the world’s fastest-growing auto markets (i.e. India and China).” Like the Figo hatchback, it will be sold in India and exported to international markets.
Given the growing market for compact SUVs in South Africa, it is likely that the new car will make it to our shore, but this cannot be confirmed at this time and largely depends pricing.
Other highlights on Ford’s show stand include the Ford Figo, the new Ford Fiesta saloon featuring the company’s PowerShift transmission, the Ford Classic and Ford Endeavour (Everest in our market).
CAR will be at the Delhi Auto Expo so be sure to keep your eyes on CARmag.co.za, our Facebook page and our Twitter feed for regular live updates.
