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Ford's European reset: a new crossover at the centre
Ford is planning a pivotal mid-size crossover as part of a broad rethink of its European strategy. The move aims to expand the brand’s reach in the C-segment while accelerating electrification and bringing more accessible models back into the lineup. Industry reports suggest the model may even carry the celebrated Focus name — but reimagined as a modern crossover.
Why the change matters
The company’s recent line-up shift — including the 2023 end of Fiesta production and the introduction of higher-priced electric crossovers such as the Explorer and Capri — left Ford with a pricier European catalog. When the long-running Focus production ends this November with the closure of the Saarlouis plant, Puma will remain Ford’s entry-level model in Europe. That tilt toward premium models prompted a strategy reset to restore balance with competitively priced, electrified vehicles.
Where it will be built and platform details
Valencia production and the C2 architecture
Autocar reports the new mid-size crossover will be assembled at Ford’s Valencia plant in Spain, with an expected capacity near 300,000 units per year. The vehicle is likely to be based on Ford’s C2 platform — the same flexible architecture that underpinned the outgoing Focus and supports hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs globally. While the C2 hasn’t yet underpinned a fully electric Ford, compliance with UK and EU electrification rules means an EV version is highly probable either at launch or soon after.
Powertrain strategy: multi-energy for Europe
Combustion, hybrid and EV options
Ford appears to be adopting a multi-energy approach for this model: petrol-hybrid variants alongside a full-electric offering. This mirrors Ford’s strategy with the Puma and reflects executive sentiment that internal combustion engines will remain relevant in Europe as EV adoption grows more gradually than regulators initially expected.
Bill Ford has publicly said regulators moved faster than many customers, and Ford’s plans now include a phased transition rather than an abrupt cut-off — keeping ICE, hybrid and EV powertrains in the mix.
Design and driving character
The new crossover will likely borrow visual cues from Ford’s American-inspired SUVs — a bolder face, sculpted flanks and a more upright stance than the Focus hatchback. Ford aims to combine distinctive styling with responsive handling to retain the brand’s reputation for engaging driving dynamics while appealing to crossover buyers who want both practicality and flair.
Specifications and expected performance
Anticipated specifications include mid-size interior packaging competitive with the Volkswagen Tiguan and Kia Sportage, multiple powertrain options (mild-hybrid or full-hybrid and BEV), and a driving setup tuned for agile handling. Precise horsepower, range and battery capacity will be revealed closer to launch, but the vehicle is expected to deliver competitive electric range and fuel-efficiency figures for the C-segment.
Market positioning and pricing
To bridge the current gap in Ford’s European pricing ladder — between the electric Puma Gen-E (around £26,000) and the Explorer/Capri (near £40,000) — the new crossover is expected to target the mid-£30,000 range. Positioned as a sibling to the Kuga rather than a direct replacement, its price and specification will be crucial to win back market share and compete with segment leaders.
Ford hopes that an affordable EV option combined with a recognizable nameplate, sharp dynamics and attractive design will help regain momentum after recent market share declines.
Naming strategy and brand history
Ford has filed trademarks for several names — Fuze, Mythic, Hive — while also reviving heritage badges such as Capri and Explorer. Given the Focus’s long legacy in the C-segment, reviving that badge for a new crossover would make sense from a marketing perspective, but other nameplates remain possible.
Competitive outlook
This Focus-sized crossover carries significant expectations: it must deliver value, practical EV accessibility, and compelling dynamics to compete with the segment’s best sellers and help Ford re-establish itself as a volume player across Europe. If Ford can combine affordability with strong design and efficient electrified powertrains, the model could narrow the gap with rivals and strengthen the brand’s position in the C-segment.
Source: autoevolution
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