Ride Review: The Ford EcoSport is back in a bold new avatar

Since its launch, EcoSport has received various accolades for its refined styling, performance, and frugal nature. It remains a popular choice amongst those who seek a great everyday machine that can double up as a weekend adventure vehicle. Ford is now ready with the all-new EcoSport which is touted to take that experience to a new level.

Bolder designs
The vehicle retains its slick sporty stance, however, it now boasts a new bonnet with a wide centre dome, a large trapezoidal grille that sits higher up, projector headlights with LED DRLs, and a reworked front bumper with new fog lamps. The new variant rides on 17-inch alloys which enhances its sporty stance. 

Refined cabin
The SUV comes with a cabin finished in an all-black theme which lends an air of ‘premiumness’ to the interior. It provides a good amount of leg space for all passengers and the boot is quite functional too. The flexi-seating allows you to drop the rear bench and use the adjustable floorboard to ensure you get a flat loading bay. You also get over 25 compartments to store knick-knacks within the vehicle.

Big on connectivity
Taking centre stage in the cabin is the large 8-inch floating touchscreen that allows you to access Ford’s latest in-car infotainment system – SYNC 3. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allows you to access music, answer phone calls, send or receive messages, and get directions. It also accesses a range of apps that include Hungama Drive and MapMy India.

Engine options
The brand new three-cylinder Ti-VCT naturally aspirated petrol engine displaces 1.5-litres and delivers 123PS of power and 150 Nm of torque. It is lighter and more efficient than the outgoing 1.5-litre engine and delivers an ARAI-tested efficiency of 17 kmpl. The petrol version can be had with a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. Ford is also offering the automatic with ‘sport mode’ and paddle shifts. As for the diesel option, the manufacturers are carrying over the 1.5-litre TDCi unit that delivers 100PS and a fuel economy of 23 kmpl. 

Verdict
The new Ford EcoSport scores on all counts. It does everything right, has been put together very well and the quality workmanship shows. It is a practical vehicle that allows you to indulge in a little fun as well and with all the changes you can rest assured that it is a great package.

Details: india.ford.com
—Vikram Gour