A new mini-SUV based on the Ford Fiesta will go on sale in the UK within the next 18 months, according to the brand.
The Ford EcoSport will compete against similar-sized compact SUVs like the Nissan Juke and the upcoming Vauxhall Mokka, which is also based on a supermini, the Corsa.
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When it goes on sale the EcoSport will join up with an expanded and strong looking Ford SUV line-up, which will include the new Kuga and debut the all-new Edge. The Ford Edge is a large crossover SUV which will be bigger in size compared to the Kuga.
Already on sale in the USA, the Ford Edge will likely hit the UK market around the same time as the EcoSport.
While details are currently short on the UK-spec Ford Edge, the American manufacturer has revealed engine specifications and equipment details for the EcoSport.
The Ford EcoSport will be available with a frugal 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine, boasting 99bhp or 118bhp. This unit won the prestigious honour of International Engine of the Year earlier this year, and is already available to order on current Ford models including the Focus, the C-Max and the B-Max.
The 1.0-litre EcoBoost will also spread out to other future Ford models including the 2013 Fiesta and the 2013 Mondeo range.
The Ford EcoSport will also be available with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. Reports also suggest the mini-SUV could get a 94bhp 1.6-litre diesel combined with a dual-clutch gearbox.
So far only two-wheel drive powertrains have been confirmed for the Ford EcoSport, but four-wheel drive setups have yet to be ruled out.
The EcoSport's equipment list will include Ford's SYNC connectivity system, which allows drivers to make phone calls and respond to text messages with voice-activated controls. The SYNC device also has an Emergency Assistance which automatically contacts emergency services if an accident occurs.
Other standard safety features on the Ford EcoSport includes anti-lock brakes, electronic stability and a hill-launch assist.
No pricing details have been released yet on the Ford EcoSport, but it will likely start in a region close to the Nissan Juke, which is currently available from £13,395. The larger Ford Edge SUV meanwhile could start from around £17,500 when it reaches the UK.