On the face of it, seems like a odd move... but they must see where the profits are. Then again, when you see the price of some of these Ford SUVs, perhaps it's not so strange. Other half's parent have just bought a Ford Edge SUV, yes it's got all the bells and whistles, but it certainly doesn't look like 30-odd grands worth to me.
Women drivers have taken to SUV / 4x4 like ducks to water, more women are having a say in car purchases these days, they probably feel safer and it helps to ease the burden of that feminist shoulder chip while they are driving.
Other half is happy with the Jazz, in fact I don't think she's going to let me get rid of it unless I get her another. Mind you, she doesn't bat an eyelid at driving a lorry, and she can reverse a trailer better than I can too.