Ford is preparing for a big comeback in India with multiple new products, one of them being a new compact SUV. The American carmaker has patented this new design, which is currently not offered in any global markets. It is likely to be manufactured specifically for the Indian market and compete with the Hyundai Creta segment. From some of the design elements of the front profile, it looks exactly like the prototype that was spotted in 2020, which was rumored to be developed with Mahindra. It seems like Ford has retained the design of the compact SUV and will develop it with their own mechanicals and new engine options. It remains to be seen if Ford continues to offer diesel engines in India or not.
Ford, the American automaker, has recently filed patents for a new SUV in India, aiming to rival the popular Hyundai Creta. This move signals Ford's intention to strengthen its presence in the highly competitive compact SUV segment in India. Let's delve into the details of this upcoming SUV and see how it stacks up against the Hyundai Creta. Ford's decision to develop an SUV to compete with the Hyundai Creta comes as no surprise, considering the success of the Creta in the Indian market. The compact SUV segment is one of the fastest-growing segments in India, and Ford is keen on capitalizing on this trend with its new offering.
Design and Styling
The patented SUV from Ford features a bold and muscular design, similar to the Hyundai Creta. It sports a large front grille, sleek LED headlights, and also the sculpted bonnet, and giving it a distinctive look on the road. The SUV's overall design is likely to appeal to be young and the urban buyers who are looking for some stylish and modern SUV. The interior is expected to borrow some styling cues from its international siblings. We hope it comes loaded with features like a large infotainment unit, digital cluster, sunroof, 360-degree camera, wireless charger, ADAS, etc., to compete in the highly competitive segment. It will compete against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate and MG Astor.
Engine and Performance
While details about the engine options are still scarce, it is expected that the Ford SUV will be powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines. These engines are likely to be mated to be manual and automatic transmissions, also can be offering buyers a wide range of choices to be suit their preferences.
Features and Technology
Ford's new SUV is expected to come loaded with features and technology to rival the Hyundai Creta. This includes a touchscreen infotainment system, and the smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control, and a host of safety features such as ABS with EBD, multiple airbags, and electronic stability control.
Pricing and Competition
Ford is likely to price its new SUV competitively to take on the Hyundai Creta. While exact pricing details are yet to be announced, Ford is expected to undercut the Creta to attract buyers. The SUV will also be compete with other popular compact SUVs in the segment, and also including the Kia Seltos and the Nissan Kicks.
Conclusion
Ford has also patented the new generation Endeavour in India, which is likely to be offered initially as a CBU import to compete with the Toyota Fortuner. It can be expected to come with the price tag of around Rs. 50 lakhs (ex-showroom). They are also preparing to launch the Ford Mustang Mach E electric crossover along with an all-new affordable electric vehicle for India. To improve its position in the Indian market, Ford made a calculated choice to design an SUV to compete with the Hyundai Creta.