Where did all the small pickups go? It’s a question truck buyers have been asking for years, and while there are plenty of complex explanations, people seem to just want bigger and bigger vehicles, and automakers are happy to sell them because they make more money on bloated boats.
Advocates for a less-is-more approach to pickups are probably about to get their wish. As Autoblog reports, Ford is working on a smaller truck to replace discontinued sedans like the Focus and Fiesta. Not only that, but according to Automotive News, a model has already been shown to top dealers, so it may get a release sooner rather than later.
Here’s what Autoblog has to say about the design:
Called P758 internally, the trucklet will ride on a unibody platform shared with the current-generation Focus sold overseas … Power will come from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that shifts through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive will likely come standard, and all-wheel drive will be offered at an extra cost.
This development seems to be Ford’s way both of capitalizing on the undeniable financial success of their trucks, while also holding onto buyers who aren’t convinced by the oversized truck and SUV trends. Additionally, the latter crowd might not be put off by the size so much as the price tag of larger models, and here, that figure is looking tempting as well; according to Autoblog, the new pickup will be priced under $20,000.
But what will it look like? Autoblog does have a few spy shots that look like a delivery van wrapped in a garbage bag, but according to those who have seen it uncovered, it reminds them of the original 1983 Ford Ranger.
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