The Visos is pretty much based on the 4x4 version of the next-generation Focus chassis. There's been much debate about whether Ford will produce a new-generation Focus Cosworth with four-wheel drive. The appearance of this concept suggests that Ford would prefer its flagship model to be a sleek coupe, rather than a be-spoilered hot hatch.

The Visos was heavily trailed as 'the future of blue oval' - in styling terms at least. The Visos is meant to represent the end of the line for the busy 'New Edge' styling that was exemplified by the Focus. The car shows 'a bold, mature, form language... we know when to leave well alone,' according to Ford Europe design boss Chris Bird.

Trouble is, the Visos is a surprisingly bland, characterless vehicle. Clean the nose and tail styling might be, but the result utterly fails to convey the origin of the Visos. The obvious nods to Ford's past come in the (strictly non-functional and ill-at-ease) vents in the rear wing and the curve of the rear side window - both taken from the first-generation Capri. But these retro hints fail to meld with the rest of car, looking as if they've been dropped in late in the design process.

The interior is better, though again is an exercise in good, clean, industrial design. But it didn't reveal an essential Ford character at all. After the hugely strong character of the Focus, Ford's European arm seems to have lost its design direction again. Try asking yourself the question: just what is a modern Ford? Well, for all the tasty technology, we're sure the Visos isn't it.