I like a lot of Fords smaller offerings...and this may be stupid...but I just can't get over how Fords current small displacement engines sound.
I can't go WOT all the time, so the engine soundtrack is a good portion of my driving enjoyment.
I suppose if they included a really good selectable "fake" soundtrack that gave me the V8 experience...maybe that would be good enough. (I'm old enough to respect the fact that not everyone enjoys the melody of open pipes on a V8...)
It's probably like my new dd Escape ST. It's quick for what it is but isn't fast by any means. 0-60 is 6.5 so definitely faster than any other Escape and can easily pass and have fun in it, but slow in the grand scheme. It's desperately in need of a tune.
If it gets imported, Ford will re-badge and slather the interior with ugly orange trim accents. The diesel engine will be long gone and in its place some shit version of the 2.3L engine.
How utterly sad.
In the form I see from overseas I would absolutely buy one, change the wheels/tires, play with the suspension, and daily drive it with a smile. Too bad Ford has to make everything difficult and ruin it with allocation games (and the resultant ADM bullshit). Just make it an option that anyone can order...think you can manage that Ford?
It's only going to get worse, @Tob. Rapid phase-in of EVs. Broadening of European market. Brings the song, 'Satisfaction' to mind. Can't get no...satisfaction.