The second-generation Ford Edge SUV that's set to replace the locally built Territory from the end of 2016 has been photographed testing in prototype form.
Ford insiders pointed CarAdvice to the Edge at the August unveiling of the Everest SUV concept, confirming that neither the production version of that Ranger ute-based model or the US market Explorer would be the substitutes for Ford Australia's homegrown soft-roader.
The Ford Edge, which becomes a global model from 2015 as part of the One Ford strategy, is in heavy disguise, though a bold three-bar grille and sleek xenon headlights can be made out at the front.
The heavy black cladding also can't mask that the new Edge will have a shorter rear overhang and a roofline that curves downwards into the rear hatch door.
Underneath is a platform shared with the upcoming Ford Mondeo medium car and models including the S-Max people-mover, Taurus large car and some Lincoln vehicles.
EcoBoost engines will dominate the power sources for the new Ford Edge, with 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre direct injection turbo four-cylinders near-certain bets.
A 2.9-litre V6 turbo is also rumoured while a hybrid is possible.
Production of the Ford Edge will reportedly start in early 2015. It's unclear at what stage Ford Australia will import the model.
The company should have the option of retaining the Territory name to leverage the local success of the SUV before local production ceases in October 2016.
The new-generation Ford Mustang has already been confirmed for Australia.
