Ford EcoSport

Over the years, the interior of the Ford Ecosport has received some substantial updates. Yes, unlike the exterior that gets moderate changes, the interior design has been revamped fully. For starters, the free-standing 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment unit looks good. One also gets Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto. This infotainment system also supports Ford SYNC3 that is seen on the Endeavour. What’s better is the all-black theme with piano-black accents gives a sporty look to the cabin. On the other hand, the cabin of the SE variant follows a dual-tone black and creme colour scheme. The sporty S trim follows an all-black cabin theme with orange highlights. The S variant is equipped with aluminium pedals. 

The three-spoke multi-function steering wheel is new and the leather treatment gives it a premium touch. You also get tilt and telescopic adjustments for the steering wheel. Feature-wise, Ford Ecosport is equipped with an automatic climate control, electronic IRVM, cruise control, push-button start/stop, two 12V power outlets, power-folding ORVMs, rear defogger, rear wiper, electrically adjustable sunroof, automatic headlights with follow me home function and much more.

Visibility from the driver’s seat is good but you might find the A-pillar a bit too thick, which is something that hinders the view to some extent. The seats are cushioned properly and provide comfort on long-distance journeys. Move to the rear and you realise the legroom and shoulder space are still the sore points of the Ecosport. The rear seats have now better bolsters and provide softer cushioning. The rear AC vents are missing in the Ford Ecosport but we’re not complaining as the AC of the Ecosport chills down the cabin in just a few minutes. The boot space of the Ecosport is measured at 352 litres. The door opens wide and you can stuff a lot inside. The only problem is that in tight parking spaces opening the boot might be an issue since the tailgate does not open up like a hatch. 

Ford Ecosport is available with two engine options - a 1.5L petrol unit and a 1.5L diesel engine. Both these engines are available with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard and the petrol unit is even available with a 6-speed automatic transmission as an option. The petrol motor generates 122 PS of maximum power at 6500 RPM with a peak torque of 149 Nm at 4500 RPM. 

At idle, this three-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine is great in refinement and the initial vibrations get settled down once the speed starts building up. This engine is focused on being driven in a sedate manner and the power delivery is smooth. The ARAI certified mileage of Ford Ecosport sticks to 15.9 kmpl for the manual and 14.7 kmpl for the automatic. Ford also claims that this engine is 7 percent more fuel-efficient than the previous 1.5L unit. 

The automatic is the one to pick if you’re someone looking for a convenient drive in bumper to bumper city traffic. The gears shift smoothly if you drive with a light right foot and the part-throttle response is great for overtaking in the traffic. The Sports mode here is useful for high-speed overtaking. 

The 1.5L turbocharged diesel engine churns out 100 PS of maximum power with a peak torque of 215 Nm. This engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The turbo spools in right from 1750 RPM and makes the city driving easier. The diesel version returns a better fuel economy as the ARAI figure is rated at 20.9 kmpl. Ford Ecosport diesel is a mile muncher and for someone who has high usage, this engine variant will be a good choice. 

Ford Ecosport offers a good balance  between comfort and sporty handling characteristics. The ride is comfortable over most road conditions while the dynamics of this SUV are pretty good, too. Even though it offers a stiff suspension, you can use it easily on a daily basis. With more than 200 mm of ground clearance, it eats up bad patches of roads for breakfast. The NVH levels of the Ford Ecosport are good. Despite its size and proportions, the body roll in the Ford Ecosport is well contained and you’ll find yourself pushing this car hard into the corners. 

The steering wheel is direct and has the right amount of heft for both city and highway usage. In fact, for those who love spending most of their time behind the wheel, Ford Ecosport’s steering will put a smile on their face. Even at high speeds, the steering wheel has a great response and the straight-line stability is commendable. You get disc brakes at the front and drum at the rear. The brakes are responsive and in case of panic braking, they won’t let you down. 

Ford Ecosport has scored four stars in the Euro NCAP rating and is considered one of the safest subcompact SUVs. While the India-spec model is yet to be tested, the top-spec version here comes with six airbags, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, tyre pressure monitoring system, high-speed alert system, front seat belt reminder, electronic stability program, hill hold control, rear parking sensors, child safety lock, speed sensing door lock and a reverse camera. Do note that the base and mid-spec variants come with dual airbags as standard. 

The build of the Ford Ecosport is robust and feels extremely solid. In addition to the safety features, the crucial areas of the Ford Ecosport come with boron steel construction. Boron steel is lighter and four times stronger than the normal steel. This results in enhanced strength without increasing the weight of the car. Next time when you are taking a test drive of the Ford Ecosport or even seated in the vehicle then close the doors by yourself. You will find that the doors are a little heavier and as they close, there’s a confident thud sound that can be heard.