Ford and Mahindra partner up to deliver an up-market C-segment SUV in end 2020.
The partnership between Ford and Mahindra is comprehensive in its capacity. The carmakers have discussed everything such as engine and platform sharing SUVs, sedans and electric cars and we are likely to see the first products of this partnership by the end of 2020. The new C-segment SUV will deliver an authentic Ford SUV experience at a very aggressive price.
The partnership isn’t just a rebadging exercise as Ford’s version of the C-SUV will have an all-new exterior and interior and even a slightly different and improved chassis in comparison to the all-new XUV500 or W601, which is currently being co-developed by Mahindra and SsangYong. Common features between the two SUVs will be the doors, windows and windscreen. Another feature the cars will share will be the touchscreen. The new system is likely to get a screen similar to that on the EcoSport, but with several upgrades. It is based on Ford’s multimedia system that sits a rung below its Sync3 suite.
The Ford C-SUV will share engines with the next-gen XUV500. Mahindra is developing an all-new, advanced 2.0-litre diesel motor to power its future line-up of large SUVs and will be fully BS6 compliant. This engine will also come with a 6-speed gearbox sourced from Mahindra. An automatic transmission will be part of the range as well, while traction control, ESP and hill descent control are also expected to be present.
The C-SUV will be positioned between the EcoSport and Endeavour. Ford’s C-SUV is likely to have a large cowl, a wide Ford grille, the design may feature sleek, high-mounted LED headlamps. It will get aggrandised wheel arches along with larger and wider wheels. Changes on the inside would consist of a different dash and instrument cluster along with part leather seats to give it a more upmarket look.
The new Ford C-SUV will be special as it will be the first SUV to be primarily developed by the India Product Development team at Ford. A lot of input will be taken from the APAC PD, based out of Australia, such as tuning the springs, dampers and steering. But the bulk of the work will happen out in India, and that will help Ford price the SUV competitively.
Ford Made-For-India SUV
– The car will be the first fruit of the Ford-Mahindra partnership
– The Ford C-SUV will share engines with the next-gen XUV500
– As the car will be built in India, Ford will be able to price it aggressively
Source – AutocarIndia.com
