Ford blazes Trail

Ford blazes a Trail with rug ged new Fiesta SUV

It's amazing what you can do with a Fiesta. Just look at what Ford unveiled at the Sao Paulo Motor Show in Brazil

Auto Express Car Reviews

Fiesta-based Trail gets SUV styling and raised suspension

By Ross Pinnock

30th October 2006

The Trail is a pumped-up version of a high-riding Fiesta model which is sold in the South American market. And we reckon the newcomer's aggressive body-kit would certainly find favour with image-conscious European buyers.

It features extended wheelarches and protective door mouldings in a contrasting grey finish. Stylists have also given the Trail chunky front and rear bumpers to enhance the go-anywhere looks. What's more, there's an integrated bull bar-style grille design that's flanked by angular upswept headlamps.

Indicator repeaters mounted in the door mirrors - inspired by those on Mercedes models - and smoked tail-light clusters complete the Trail's bold design.

Under the skin, raised suspension provides the newcomer with enhanced ground clearance. This ensures that, even though it's front-wheel drive-only, the car can cope with mild off-roading duties. The set-up also helps improve the ride on tarmac.

Other macho styling cues include a set of angular roof bars, as well as pronounced sill caps, which are designed to resemble the side steps fitted to full-sized SUVs. The tough appearance is complemented by big five-spoke alloys - which are borrowed from the Focus - along with a large bonnet-mounted air intake and dark tinted windows. Underbody protection-style mouldings complete the mud-plugging illusion.