Ford Iosis MAX Concept at 2009 Geneva Motor Show

• Looks like: European styling is here to stay
• Defining characteristics: Stubby front end and huge windshield
• Ridiculous features: Gill-like headlights, sliding rear doors
• Chance of being mass-produced: This is the design concept for Ford’s next global C-Car, which we know as the Focus

This year’s Geneva Motor Show holds even less interest for American consumers than usual, but Ford’s Iosis MAX concept is of vital importance to the company’s U.S. lineup. Ford says this is a look at the design it’s considering for its next global C-car. That’s the size of the Ford Focus here in the States. Ford has already said the next U.S. Focus will be the same model as what’s sold globally, unlike the current model, which is made strictly for the U.S. market.

Expect a new Focus to come in calendar year 201,1 and we’d expect a formal concept or even an early production version to be shown off at auto shows in 2010.

But what about this concept right here? It looks promising. The long, sloping windshield might seem fanciful and a bit impractical (imagine that morning commute sunshine), but Germany’s Opel sells a car with a similar windshield. It should translate to a very bright and airy cabin, at least.

The hatchback shape is a must for sales in Europe and will hopefully mark the return of a four-door Focus hatchback in the U.S. We’d still think Ford would add a sedan as well. The rear hatch features an opening glass panel, which is rarely seen on today’s cars and SUVs.

Unlikely to make it to production are the sliding rear doors, like a minivan’s, and glass roof. The engine is a four-cylinder turbo that Ford is rolling out in Europe now. It’s expected to return excellent mileage that Ford says is 20% better than the competition.

More photos below.