Ford has confirmed it will launch a B-segment crossover called the Ecosport in Europe within the next 18 months.

Nick Collins, B-car vehicle line director, Ford of Europe, said: “Ford EcoSport will deliver great value, quality and fuel economy.

“It will also present customers with a fantastic small car choice that will also include the B-Max compact multi-activity vehicle as well as new Fiesta.”

EcoSport is the first Ford global model to be developed entirely in South America.

The new model will help Ford’s goal of increasing its share of the European SUV market which it expects to double over the next five years.

Ford has confirmed the EcoSport will come available with anti-lock brake system, electronic stability program, hill launch assist, as well as Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system.

The company is due to launch a new version of the larger Kuga crossover and also add a European version of the larger Edge which is already on sale in North America.