Ford’s roll-out of its redesigned European business plan will result in a radical overhaul of its large car range, as the brand confirms three new model nameplates for the region in the next five years.
The firm says it is “freshening and expanding its vehicle line-up in Europe”, with the three new nameplates coming “as it continues to grow its utility vehicle portfolio”.
UPDATE: The Ford Mustang Mach-E has been revealed - full story here
The new models, which are in addition to the new Kuga family SUV, Puma small crossover and not-for-UK Explorer, also include the “Mustang-inspired fully electric performance utility” model, as Ford dubs it.
Ford of Europe president Stuart Rowley told Autocar that the European focus is on an expansion of its “family utility line-up”, but he wouldn’t confirm specific names or models that will be replaced.
“We are very focused in orienting our portfolio with where consumers are going," he said. "Many buyers are moving into the utility space, but for us the key question is where buyers are going next."
When asked if these new cars would indirectly replace slow-selling D-segment models such as the Ford Mondeo, Ford Galaxy and Ford S-Max, Rowley said the three models “remain part of our product portfolio for now. However, we need to adapt to the changing market”.
Alongside this announcement, Ford has released a status report of its European business strategy changes, which will result in three new ‘business groups’ - commercial vehicles, passenger vehicles and imports - established. The organisational changes to implement this will come into force on 1 July.
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Styling
Styling is very important for any car. The current Galaxy and S-Max are not a patch on the previous models - too bland and under-wheeled. The current Mondeo is the same. Peugeot have shown that an MPV doen't have to be bland - witness the 5008 and 3008 - and that good looks sell.
The Galaxy and S-Max still sell and could sell more if they were better looking.
Nice
I think it's cool how the Mustang "inspired" electric crossover looks almost nothing like a mustang
Mogamary wrote:
Yes, that's like Mercedes suggesting that the GLA is inspired by the 190SL!
I see more Focus
than Mustang. I also see more startled fish than big cat in the Puma.
The new Ford Redundancy
Seats 53 000.
If Ford is going hard on SUVs
If Ford is going hard on SUVs, it’s time to think about what the next trend will be because this company seems to be perpetually behind the curve in Europe.
The S Max lost a lot of character in its second generation, but for me, Ford had something to develop and nurture here. A spacious, taller sports estate with the option of 7 seats and 4WD? The styling can evolve but the core proposition is sound.
Cenuijmu wrote:
Ford must feel they missed a golden opportunity when deciding you and others like you were just too good for them. Go and give them the survival shot in the arm that they need from you.
Takeitslowly wrote:
We get it. it sucks to be you.