(January 10,2011) DETROIT — Ford's new Vertrek concept, revealed today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, offers a dynamic, all-inclusive solution to what customers demand in a compact SUV across the globe, particularly in North America, Europe and the world’s largest car market, China.

Key trends among customers for this type of vehicle are common to North America, Europe and Asia. They include engaging design, outstanding fuel economy and smart technologies wrapped in a right-sized package that supports an active lifestyle.

The concept shows the direction the company will take as it works to renew both the Ford Escape and Ford Kuga

“In markets around the world, consumers are very clear about what they want in a compact SUV – strong design, great driving quality, smart technology and the capability that helps get them to places they love to be,” said Jim Farley, group vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. “This holds true no matter where they live – in the U.S., Europe, China — these are global trends.”

Importantly, the Vertrek concept showcases the cargo-carrying capability that consumers expect, but adds a level of craftsmanship and quality often lost in compact SUVs.

“This concept supports the idea of ‘grab your gear and go’ capability, but does it in a very sophisticated way,” said Farley. “It blends capability and great design and craftsmanship.”

The Vertrek concept previews a next-generation product with a sleek, modern design and yet maintains the generous cargo volume offered by the current Ford Escape in North America, a traditional compact SUV with 66.3 cubic feet (1,879 liters) behind the first row and 29.2 cubic feet (828 liters) behind the second row.

The concept is also created to show how an all-new Ford compact SUV could offer substantially more cargo volume than the current Ford Kuga sold in Europe, yet still retain design leadership in its segment. In production, a vehicle based on the Vertrek concept could offer about 15 percent more cargo volume behind the first row than the Kuga and around 20 percent more cargo volume behind the second row.

Check the auto show highlights on MotorwayAmerica.