2005 Ford SYNus Concept

Unveiled at the 2005 North American International Auto Show, the Ford SYNus Concept was designed to showcase an urban vehicle suited for dense city environments, particularly in North America. Built on the European Ford Fiesta platform, the Ford SYNus was a compact vehicle created with tight streets, heavy traffic, and parking challenges in mind. Ford anticipated a shift toward more urban living, predicting that by 2010, most Americans would reside in cities.

The design of the SYNus Concept was striking, combining security-inspired features with a somewhat unconventional, boxy aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from armored vehicles and bank vaults, it conveyed a sense of safety and ruggedness. This concept featured protective shutters that could deploy over the windshield and side windows when the vehicle was in secure mode. Even the rear hatch had no window, further enhancing the "armored" appearance. The driver-side dial-operated combination lock on the B-pillar and a vault-style four-spoke spinner for the rear hatch emphasized the concept’s security focus.

Visually, the SYNus was tough and utilitarian, with flat glass, angular lines, bold wheel arches, and a wider track that set it apart from typical compact cars. While its look resembled an armored cash-in-transit vehicle, the reality was that it was still compact—designed for city maneuverability.

Inside, however, the SYNus offered a surprising level of comfort and sophistication. The cabin had light, airy tones and innovative features, such as front seats that could rotate 180 degrees to face the rear passengers, creating a small, conversational space. A large high-resolution LCD monitor on the inner surface of the rear door added a futuristic touch, allowing entertainment options like DVD playback or a live feed from the rear-view camera.

The SYNus utilized the Ford Fiesta's suspension setup (MacPherson strut in front and a torsion beam rear), though it featured a much wider track and larger wheels. The powertrain was borrowed from the Ford Mondeo: a 2.0-liter Duratorq turbodiesel engine, producing 134 horsepower and 347 Nm of torque. This engine was also modified to run on a fuel mixture that could include up to 20% synthetic fuel made from agricultural waste or used kitchen oil, enhancing fuel efficiency while giving off a distinct, familiar scent reminiscent of a fast-food diner.

While the SYNus Concept was never intended for production, it provided insight into Ford's thinking about future urban mobility, with a focus on compactness, security, and efficiency. The combination of rugged design and cozy interior also offered a glimpse into the growing trend of combining functionality with comfort in urban vehicles.