When Ford and Mahindra terminated their joint venture in 2021, it resulted in the cancellation of several upcoming models. One notable casualty was the Ford C-SUV based on the Mahindra XUV700 (W601). Internally known as the CX757, this model was to be an India-specific model. This model was crucial for Ford India, which needed a strong contender bang in the middle of the Ecosport and the Endeavour. Eventually, though, we saw Ford wrapping up its operations and giving up on our market. Now, though, there seem to be some chances of a comeback! The carmaker recently filed design patents for the latest-generation Endeavour. And now, we have got our hands on another patent leak.
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Ford India’s Maruti Grand Vitara and Hyundai Creta-Sized Compact SUV
Interestingly, the patent drawing shows an SUV a shoe-size bigger than the Ford EcoSport. Touted to become the carmaker’s Maruti Grand Vitara- and Hyundai Creta-challenger, this SUV was revealed its front-end in a spy picture doing rounds of the web. Now, though, Ford is seemingly revisiting the drawing boards to resume things where they were left. Given the widespread appeal of the mid-size SUV category, a compact SUV could help Ford tap into this segment and bolster its sales figures. While the Endeavour enjoys a rich legacy, the premium D-segment doesn’t enjoy a huge sales potential.
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Hence, in case Ford actually restarts the Indian operations, a locally manufactured compact SUV looks like a pretty promising avenue. The design of the upcoming SUV appears reminiscent of the prototype spotted in 2020, particularly noticeable in the front end, suggesting continuity from the model that was initially rumored to be a collaboration with Mahindra. Noteworthy design elements from the patent include mesh-like inserts in the front grille, accompanied by boomerang-shaped headlights featuring a sleek LED DRL on the top. Additionally, the lower airdam incorporates a small plastic section, potentially housing the radar for the ADAS feature.
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Smaller Than China-Spec Explorer
The side profile of the SUV features crisp creases and bold wheel arches. Flanking them are the multi-spoke alloy wheels. The silhouette has a flat roofline and tall pillars. While there’s an uncanny resemblance with the China-spec Ford Explorer, this one’s clearly smaller in size. Also, with the Ford-Mahindra JV a no-go, the carmaker will probably make use of its own platform and motors.
Ford’s move to re-enter the Indian market will be one of strategic importance. Obviously, though, the carmaker will be aiming to avoid the pitfalls that led to significant losses of $2 billion in its previous stint. The focus, this time, will be on ensuring profitability. On one hand, the company could be inclined towards introducing premium models like the new-gen Endeavour and even the Mach-E. On the other hand, though, it will be mainstream models, like the compact SUV in focus, that would help the carmaker establish a firm foothold in the country.
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