Ford EcoSport diesel to get power boost, launch in 2016

Already launched in the UK, facelifted Ford EcoSport will also be launched in India. But not before the company launches Figo Aspire sedan, Figo hatchback and Endeavour SUV. Once these three are launched in the coming 9 months, it will be the turn of new EcoSport.

Already spied while out on test, EcoSport facelift was first showcased earlier this year at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. The biggest change is the removal of rear tailgate mounted spare-wheel. But, this update is only specific for the European market, where the buyer will now have the option of buying EcoSport with spare-wheel or without spare-wheel. In India, there will be no such option given to the buyer. EcoSport facelift in India will continue with the tailgate mounted spare-wheel.

The reason Europe will get tailgate mounted spare-wheel as option, is because many buyers consider as an added cost. The trend in Europe is shifting towards run-flat tyres, which negates the need of a spare-wheel. But in India, the reason is different. Here the buyers want tail-gate mounted spare-wheel as it adds to the SUVish looks of the car.

Exteriors

Overall, there aren’t many noticeable changes, except for the missing spare-wheel at the rear. Other than that, there are a few minor updates on the exterior. For eg, headlamp cluster now features LED DRLs, lower bumper gets silver cladding on the front and rear, and new larger 17 inch alloys (with new design). Roofrails are optional, and so is black roof.

Interiros

On the inside, new Ford EcoSport gets all black dashboard (silver accents are removed), large 4 inch colour screen, black leather (semi) seats, backlit dimming option, chrome tabs for power window switches, handbrake lever position is relocated for better access, and steering wheel gets more controls (on both sides).

Ford has also managed to improve the ride and handling of new EcoSport by adjusting springs, dampers, rear axle twist beams, gear shifts, and better ESP. They have also improved the NVH levels inside the cabin.

Specs

Dimensions: 3999 mm X 1765 mm X 1708 mm (L X W X H)
Wheelbase: 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 52 liters
Tyres: 205/60/16 tubeless
Brakes: Disc (front), Drum (rear)
Boot: 346 liters, 705 liters (with rear seats folded)
Turning radius: 5.325 meters
Ground clearance – 200 mm

Engine

Just like the current EcoSport, the facelift will also be offered in three engine options. These will be in the form of 1.5L TiVCT petrol, 1.5L TDCi and 1.0L EcoBoost. Output of these engines will remain unchanged, except for Ford EcoSport diesel engine. This one will deliver 100 PS and 215 Nm torque, instead of the existing 91 PS and 2014 Nm. It is mated to a 5 speed MT.

The 1.5L petrol will deliver 112 PS and 140 Nm, it will be mated to a 5 speed manual and a 6 speed automatic dual clutch gearbox. 1.0L EcoBoost delivers 125 PS and 170 Nm torque while being mated to a 5 speed manual. All variants are offered as FWD, no 4×4 option is on offer.

Price

Manufactured at Ford India’s plant in Chennai, price of EcoSport facelift in the UK starts from £14,245 (Rs 13.5 lakhs). But in India, it is expected to be in the range of Rs 6.7-10 lakhs. Once launched, it will rival with upcoming Maruti YBA compact SUV.

Video