Earlier today, Ford presented their fourth
quarter and full year earnings report for 2019. While the financial stuff
wasn’t too exciting, the presentation included a few tidbits about future
models. In particular, the automaker announced five new vehicles are coming
this year. One of the most important is the new F-150 which will have its
“first-ever hybrid-electric version.”
Ford has been tight-lipped about the
truck, but previous spy photos have shown the model will have a new three-bar
grille which is flanked by vertical headlights. The rest of the truck is slated
to have an evolutionary design as Ford doesn’t want to mess with success.
While the exterior will be pretty
conservative, the cabin will feature more modern technology. Among the changes
will be a new SYNC 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen display.
Previous spy photos have also shown what appears to be a digital instrument
cluster.
Engine options remain unconfirmed, but the
hybrid model is slated to be joined by an electric variant in 2021. We can also
expect a variety of familiar engines which could include a 2.7-liter EcoBoost
V6, a 3.0- or 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and a 5.0-liter V8. The current model’s
3.0-liter V6 diesel should also continue to be available.
Besides the new F-150, Ford will launch
the small off-road utility vehicle which has become known as the “Baby Bronco.”
The model leaked out in 2018 and has been spied multiple times since then.
The vehicle is based on the Escape, so
engine options could include a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder with 180 hp and 240 Nm of torque as well as a 2.0-liter
EcoBoost four-cylinder with 250 hp and 372 Nm.
There had been rumors about a hybrid variant, Ford’s presentation shut that
idea down.
