A couple of recently filed trademarks suggests that Ford could be bringing back some old nameplates. As reported by Car and Driver's Greg Fink, trademarks have been filed for the Maverick and Timberline names. First introduced in the 1970s, the Maverick was a compact model designed to replace the Falcon. It was positioned above the Pinto and was sold in the U.S. from 1970 to 1977. In the 2000s, Escape models were rebadged as a Maverick in markets outside of the U.S. Now, the Maverick could be making its comeback.

According to the documents from the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Ford has been trying to secure the Maverick name since December 15, 2016. The company had to prove why it deserved to own the name, and the USPTO finally published the application on April 17, 2018. Of course, we now know that Ford won't be selling sedans or small cars in the future, so the name will most likely be used for an upcoming SUV. Ford recently previewed its forthcoming SUV lineup, which will be spearheaded by the new Bronco and Explorer. There will also be a new compact off-roader that will act as a Baby Bronco.

It's possible the new model could be called the Ford Maverick, particularly as sources have suggested the design will be inspired by the original Escape. Ford says the new model is "designed to win a growing number of people who love getting away and spending time outdoors with their families and friends." Alternatively, it could also be called the Timberline based on Ford's trademark filings - the name certainly has outdoor connotations, but it could also be the name of a trim level. Ford's plan to expand its range of SUVs and crossovers comes after the automaker announced it will be killing most of its passenger cars in the US. The only cars that survived the chop are the Mustang and Focus Active.