The Ford Freestyle is Making a Comeback in India
When you hear the word freestyle, you might think of a scene from 8 Mile, or of the incredible 10-minute freestyle Black Thought did on HOT 97 not too far back. You are not likely, however, to think of the Ford Freestyle, the crossover that replaced the Ford Taurus station wagon in 2005-07, became the Ford Taurus X from 2008-09, and was ostensibly replaced by the Ford Flex thereafter.
Ford is putting the Freestyle name to use once again, introducing the new Ford Freestyle crossover late last month. Though Ford calls the Freestyle a global product, it has thus far only revealed that the crossover will be arriving in India, where it will go on sale in the second quarter of this year. The Freestyle is being sold as the KA+ Active in Europe.
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“The global unveil of the Ford Freestyle strengthens Ford’s continued commitment to India to bring products that consumers want and value,” said Anurag Mehrotra, president and managing director, Ford India. “With the cool, capable, and connected Ford Freestyle, we are adding yet another great product to our diverse portfolio that will help us expand our family of happy Ford owners in India.”
“Freestyle is more than just an expression. This powerful word immediately encourages you to push the boundaries and do more, just like the product,” said Rahul Gautam, vice president for Marketing at Ford India.
At first blush, the new Ford Freestyle looks quite a bit more inspired than the admittedly clunky wagon of old. Ford has thus far confirmed that models sold in India will be equipped with the all-new 1.2-liter Ti-VCT three-cylinder or an optional 1.5-liter TDCi diesel, SYNC 3 infotainment with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and up to six airbags.
As for any other global markets in which the Ford Freestyle nameplate will be revived? Well, you’ll just have to stay tuned.
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