2022 Ford Evos detailed: Is this Mondeo-replacing crossover coming to Australia to take on the Subaru Outback and other large SUVs?

Ford has uncovered the box-fresh Evos at the Shanghai motor show, positioning it as a more stylish mid-size SUV alternative to the Escape.

However, the new model will remain exclusive to the Chinese market for now, with a Ford Australia representative telling CarsGuide there are currently no plans for the Evos to announce at this time.

Rumours have indicated though, that the Evos will make its way to Europe and even Australia as a replacement for the now discontinued Mondeo mid-sizer as the market shifts away from passenger cars and into SUVs.

Billed as Ford’s first model to be “developed largely by a China-based team” with “Chinese consumer experience and ownership scenarios” in mind, the Evos is a coupe-like SUV with sharp design cues and a sloping roofline.

Slim and slender headlights flank a new grille that features a three-dimensional scale design, while subtle wheelarch cladding point to the Evos’ high-riding status.

Powertrain details are yet to be revealed however, but the Evos forms part of the ‘Ford China 2.0’ plan, which includes a continued focus on electrification and connectivity, meaning the potential for a plug-in hybrid powertrain like the one seen on the Escape PHEV.

Speculation also indicates that the Evos will also score the same 183kW/387Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine found in its Escape sibling, which is available with front- and all-wheel drive.

It is unlikely the Evos will be offered with a full electric powertrain however, as Ford also confirmed pricing for the Chinese market, and similarly-sized, Mustang Mach E at the same event.

Inside the Evos though, is a massive 1.1-metre-wide screen, which incorporates a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and 27-inch 4K touchscreen for multimedia duties and passenger entertainment.

Passengers aren’t just related to a passive experience though, as they are able to view vehicle data, navigation instructions and traffic sign information “to help the driver better understand road conditions”, according to Ford.

The system is also designed with on-demand subscription services in mind, though exactly what they are, how much they will cost and which regions they will be available is still unclear.

Powered by Sync+ 2.0, the system features a Virtual Personal Assistant and allows for over-the-air updates.

Ford president and CEO Jim Farley said: “At Ford, our purpose is to help build a better world where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams.

“That’s as true today as it was when the company was founded nearly 118 years ago,” he said.

“We are working together with our partners to deliver a superior and distinctive branded experience for our customers in China and around the world, and continue delivering on the ‘Best of Ford, Best of China’ commitment.

“Moving forward, we will still deliver great new products globally plus develop valuable, always-on relationships that grow and evolve over time.”