The Ford team had some fascinating things to say at the North American International Auto Show this past January. According to the company, four brand-new SUVs are going to be introduced to the lineup in a "few years." Hinting at basic supply and demand, Ford reps said that SUVs are more popular than ever and that U.S. SUV sales are expected to increase further, making it more important for the company to invest in the development of additional sport utility vehicles.

Ford confirmed that the models would be brand-new and not based on any of the SUVs in the brand's current lineup, which include the Expedition, Explorer, Flex, Escape and Edge. There have been rumors about the return of the Ford Ranger and Bronco, though this has still not been confirmed. Aside from these two vehicles, sources speculate that an international model – the Ecosport pictured above – could be brought to the U.S. market. It's a subcompact SUV that could meet the demand among U.S. consumers for smaller utility vehicles with high fuel economy and more carlike steering than larger SUVs.

For now there are few other details, but as more information becomes available we'll keep you posted!