The graffiti graphics might be adventurous, but there’s not been much of an attempt to really disguise these Carparazzi pix of Ford’s upcoming mini MPV, the Fiesta-based B-Max. In the flesh, the mini Ford looks inseparable from the concept car shown in Geneva last year.
With sliding rear doors and a more upright profile, the B-Max aims to present a useful interior with more space for passengers and luggage than a regular light hatchback. It is said to be around 320mm shorter than the Ford Focus-based C-Max MPV.
As captured in the Carparazzi shots, the dash is close, but not exactly Fiesta. The Darth Vader-style centre stack looks more than a little reminiscent though, as do the three-spoke steering wheel and hooded instrument binnacle.
The powertrain possibilities embrace all that is available in the current Fiesta range, including the 1.6-litre Duratec petrol and the 1.6-litre Duratorq turbodiesel, with the new 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost engine a possibility. Five-speed manual and six-speed dual-clutch Powershift auto transmissions are likely to be offered.
The B-Max will compete directly with Opel’s Meriva MPV — which is Australia-bound — and presents an interesting logistical challenge to Ford in Australia, with two Fiesta-based options to consider: the B-Max and the little EcoSport SUV. According to Ford Australia execs in India for the launch of the EcoSport, the latter is a more likely option in a market where SUVs appeal more than family-oriented MPVs.
— with Carparazzi
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