Ford is developing a C-segment SUV, the CX757, that could pose a challenge to competitors such as the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier/Safari, MG Hector and the Mahindra XUV700
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First Individual Product Since Mahindra Split
This will be Ford’s first individually produced product since its final split from Mahindra.
Under the joint venture both stood to gain much. Ford could enjoy a lower cost base and Mahindra could benefit from Ford’s SUV expertise.
Had the joint venture not split, 3 Ford SUVs the two were working on could have been a reality today.
Development
Ford will make use of its R&D centre, the Asia-Pacific Development Centre, in Melbourne, Australia to ensure maintenance of its standards.
The C-SUV will be based on the Ford Territory’s platform and designed by Italian automotive designer and Mahindra-owned Pininfarina which also worked on Ferraris.
It is presently already available in China, Brazil and the Philippines.
Dimensions
It has a length of 4580mm, width of 1936mm along with a height of 1674mm .
It has a wheelbase of 2716mm, like Mahindra’s XUV700 and a 420-litres boot space.
Interior Features
As it is designed with developing markets in mind such as Brazil, the interiors will comprise light colours, faux wood panels and chrome highlights.
Electronics include a 10.1-inch Sync Touch system, wireless charging, a digital instrument screen and FordPass which is its connected car tech.
Powertrain
The China version runs on a 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine producing 138bhp and 225 Nm of torque.
However the Brazil version has a slightly higher output of 148bhp with the same powertrain.
Transmissions include manual as well as CVT gearboxes.
India Launch, Price, Powertrain
In India one can expect a diesel option to also be offered which runs on 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engine which is made in India.
The same engine powers the Endeavour.
The 1.5 EcoBoost engine could be assembled in Sanand, Gujarat which can produce power of 140 or 150hp and a peak torque of 225 Nm.
The pricing is expected to be in the Rs 12 lakh range.
However, its launch will be delayed by 6 months since it has to either secure another supplier or rejig its own engines since Mahindra is no longer in the picture.
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