Ford India’s upcoming 7-seat crossover, called the C-SUV or CX757, could be based on the Territory midsize SUV.
After Ford and Mahindra’s joint venture ceased to exist, the American carmaker had to revise its plans for India and restructure its operations to boot. This includes developing its 7-seat midsize SUV by making use of its own platform and powertrains.
Back in March, it came to light that Ford is considering launching the Territory in India (read article here) and now it looks like its proposed 7-seat midsize SUV will be based on the same.
To be similar in size to the XUV700 with which it was set to share platform and engines, the new 7-seat SUV from Ford is expected to come with a wheelbase of 2.7 metres, the same as the Ford Territory. So, Ford should effectively not have to majorly alter the design of the car.
The Ford Territory, sold in China, Brazil and the Philippines to name a few markets, was jointly developed by Ford and Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC). However, Ford also made use of its Melbourne-based Asia-Pacific Development Centre’s expertise to ensure that global standards were met.
It is at that centre where the marriage of CX757’s design from Pininfarina and Ford-JMC’s platform that underpins the Territory crossover is likely to take place.
Powering the 7-seat Ford CX757 could be Ford’s own 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine found in the Endeavour. It could be offered in a detuned state, while a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine option would be offered as well.
Ford should be able to competitively price the CX757 when it launches the car in India. Expect the SUV to come fitted with all the bells and whistles already found in the Territory, while some additional features might also be added to justify its premium price tag.
Source – AutocarIndia.com