Ford is developing a new India specific MPV which will be based on the Mahindra Marazzo.
There are some exciting new products in the pipeline from Ford and Mahindra thanks to the JV between the American and Indian carmakers. One of the new products is an MPV from Ford which will be based on the Mahindra Marazzo platform. However, the styling will be completely different.
Ford was initially considering the low-cost version of the B-Max MPV for the Indian market. However, the investment required was too high and it wasn’t feasible for them to introduce it in India in this competitive segment. While that plan has shelved, Ford is working on their first MPV for India with Mahindra.
The styling of this Ford MPV will be inspired by the B-Max and it will have a completely new interior design too along with Ford specific features and materials. The platform will be shared with the Marazzo which is a front-wheel drive ladder frame chassis.
Ford will be tuning the suspension and will offer the MPV with both 7 and 8-seater versions just like the Marazzo. In terms of powertrain options. Ford will be plonking in the 1.5-litre diesel from Mahindra which will be BS6 compliant. They are also considering the 1.5-litre turbo petrol currently being developed by Mahindra.
The new Ford MPV will be offered with both manual and AMT gearbox options. It is expected to make its debut in the Indian market by 2021. The new Ford MPV will compete with the likes of Mahindra Marazzo, Maruti Ertiga and the likes. There is a new wave of MPVs being launched in India across all the segments right from Renault Triber to Kia Carnival.
Ford Marazzo MPV
– It will be based on the Marazzo platform
– Will have a completely different styling
– Expected to be launched in India by 2021
Source – AutocarIndia.com