FORD’S VERTREK CONCEPT PREVIEWS NEXT ESCAPE

Dubbed Vertrek, the small crossover utility vehicle is based on Ford’s European kinetic design language, although the automaker says it offers the off road capability, cargo space and trailer towing features necessary for buyers in the United States. Hit read more for details and videos!

Powered by a 1.6-liter EcoBoost turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine, the Vertrek is very closely related to the European-market Ford Kuga. However, a number of aerodynamic modifications have made the crossover more efficient than either the current Escape or the Kuga. In addition, the concept features regenerative charging via its brakes and Ford’s latest automatic start/stop system.

The Vertrek rides on Ford’s C-segment platform, which also underpins the newFord Focus compact car. Ford says that the Vertrek – and the production models that will follow – will be be one of 10 C-segment-based vehicles in the automaker’s portfolio.

Penned under the stewardship of Ford chief designer J Mays, the Vertrek features a number of Ford’s latest design language cues. Most notably, its lower trapezoidal grille, slim head and tail lamps and gently creased exterior details make it a clear member of Ford’s family.

“The building blocks of kinetic design – defining the stance and how the body is set over the wheels; strong and precisely executed surfacing; the dynamic, expressive lines and creating a sleeker aerodynamic profile – are all very much in line with what we believe customers want in future compact SUVs,” said Martin Smith, Ford executive design director, in a statement released to the media.

Inside, the concept features a wing-like dashboard covered in Dusk Grey leather. Four individual seats covered in tanned velour and leather are designed to remind passengers of a certain German clothing item.

The seats “have the robust quality of Bavarian lederhosen,” Smith said.

Although many of the concept car’s details are clearly not production-bound (especially the lederhosen seats), we can look for its basic shape and design language to show up on the next-generation Escape. Look for a production model to bow soon, potentially at the New York International Auto Show in April.

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