Focus-based SUV closer for Ford

The concept which overshadowed Ford's Paris September 2006 debut of the Mondeo, the Iosis-X (for more click here) is on the road. Kinda…

Outed by CarPoint/Carsales' spymasters, Carparazzi, the heavily disguised prototype was caught testing ahead of the compact SUV's expected Frankfurt motor show debut later this year.

Don't be disappointed by the boxy look of this prototype of the Focus-based all-rounder, but by the same token don't expect it to turn into a 100 per cent swoopy Iosis-X clone either. Pundits are tipping the vehicle will hit the showrooms with a more derivative family look than the show car (think elements of the new Mondeo) and a profile not unlike its distant cousin, Mazda's CX-7.

And don't expect the 'Iosis' moniker to make it to the badgework, either.

That said, nothing firm is known about the name of the new car which will go on sale in early 2008 in Europe. What is clear is that it will take on established models like Opel's Antara (Captiva MaXX) and yet to be released all-wheel drives such as Volkswagen Tiguan and Volvo's XC60.

As for the car arriving Down Under... We'd suggest Ford Australia would love to have the model to replace the Escape when it comes time, however, any such plans are likely to be at least 18 months away…

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