New Ford Escort returns 14 | 04 | 2014

A NEW PRODUCTION version of the Ford Escort will make its debut at the Beijing Motor Show. But don't expect to see the car on Scottish roads: it's intended only for the Chinese market, and will be built in China.

Though Ford bosses are remaining tightlipped about the new car, it's understood the front-drive saloon will use the powertrain lifted from the Chinese-market Focus.

Last year Ford lifted the wraps from an Escort concept (pictured) at the Shanghai Motor Show, saying it would offer “a fun driving experience, high level of technology, exceptional roominess, uncompromised functionality and sophisticated design".

The new step promises to be productive for Ford, as it will place the car in China’s compact saloon segment, which generates more than five million sales annually.

Related: Ford plans hot 1.0 Fiesta EcoBoost

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Jim McGill