A new Ford MPV is being developed for the Indian market, and the carmaker will build it jointly with its partner, Mahindra. We now have some fresh details about Ford's future model.
- New Ford MPV will share underpinnings with the Marazzo.
- Will come with a 2.2-litre engine, instead of a 1.5-litre unit.
- New Ford MPV will be aimed squarely at the Toyota Innova Crysta
Ford's upcoming MPV for India: What's new?
The new Ford MPV for India will not use the Marazzo's 1.5-litre diesel but will be powered by Mahindra's more-powerful mHawk 2.2-litre diesel engine. This is the same powerplant that made its debut in the new Mahindra Thar recently, and is also expected to power future SUVs like the next-gen XUV500 and even the all-new Scorpio, which are currently under development. While not much is known about the gearbox options, a 6-speed manual can be a safe bet for now.
New Ford MPV: What do we know so far?
We reported back in November last year about this new MPV that will be built by Ford in India. It will use the Mahindra Marazzo's platform and will be built alongside it at Mahindra’s plant in Nashik. However, sources tell us that the model will have a completely different top-hat, with Ford's family styling cues. Along with a unique exterior, the new Ford MPV for India will also have a different interior, which will look similar to Ford’s other vehicles sold globally. Ford will also use quite a bit of its own switchgear, as well as the Ford Sync infotainment system, just like its other models. This new MPV will come in multiple seating configurations like the Marazzo and will have a long list of features, a few more than what Mahindra offers. This, along with unique looks and a more powerful engine will enable Ford to position it above the Marazzo in a bid to take on well-established rivals like the Toyota Innova Crysta.
What else is in store with the Mahindra-Ford JV?
Among the many things planned, the first, jointly developed vehicle from the brands will be the next-gen XUV500 and its Ford version. While the new XUV500 will be launched first, its Ford derivative will follow a little later.
Additionally, both brands are also currently working on a new B-segment SUV that is expected to see light of day in FY2022. The SUVs will, just like the MPV, share underpinnings but will have unique top hats. Mahindra's 1.5-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol will be one of the engine options on these SUVs.
Also, the current-gen Ford EcoSport will get Mahindra's 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, in place of Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost that was available in India until last year. Expect the EcoSport 1.2 turbo-petrol to hit Ford showrooms early next year.
As reported by us earlier, these new SUVs from Ford for India will be designed by Mahindra-owned Pininfarina.