Ford EcoSport AT caught on lenses

12 October, 2012: Expected to launch by February next year, the Ford EcoSportnews has started doing rounds this early. As lately it was spied testing near its manufacturing facilities, though it has been caught umpteen times earlier, but this time it was Ford EcoSport Automatic. There were not much of modifications on the exteriors; however inside appeared to be similar to that of new 2013 Fiesta sedan. The under hood mechanism is expected to remain as it is, with 1.0L EocoBoost engine. This means that Ford EcoSport will have a variety to offer to its consumers, which is definitely needed to stay distinct from rivals Renault Duster, Maruti Ertiga and Mahindra Quanto.

Paris Motor Show: Ford EcoSport showcased

05 October, 2012: US based auto grand Ford Motors has uncovered it’s highly acclaimed compact SUV Ford EcoSport at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The crossover with award winning 1.0L EcoBoost petrol 3-cylinder engine will see its launch in Brazil right away while European auto market is said to have a wait of about 18 months for Ford EcoSport launch. Recently, company said in a statement that India production will begin by February 2013 and here Ford EcoSport will lock horns with potent players like Renault Duster, Maruti Ertiga and Mahindra Scorpio. As per some reliable resources the Ford EcoSport price is expected to be around INR 8-10 lakh.

Ford EcoSport production to take-off by Feb’ 2013

26 September, 2012 : Preparing for the Paris Motor Show unveiling tomorrow, the scintillating compact SUV Ford EcoSport is said to be rolled out of Indian manufacturing unit by the first quarter of next year. The Ford facility, from where EcoSport will be rolled-out, is based at Maraimalai Nagar, Chennai. As per the sources, Ford India MD and President called upon honorable CM of Tamil Nadu Jayalalitha inviting her on the launch occasion of elegant compact SUV in the month of February-March 2013. Furthermore along with India the other two production units will be based in China and Thailand. With Ford Ecosport launch Renault Duster and Maruti Ertiga are bound to face stiff way ahead.

Ford EcoSport feature list uncovered

12 September, 2012: Ford Motors is doing every possible act to get its modern-day compact SUV Ford EcoSport in news as far as India-launch is concerned. Formerly it was ground-breaking 1.0L EcoBoost engine, whilst this time its numerous innovative features are being highlighted. Firstly the advanced gadgetry aspect includes Ford SYNC, which is a multi-media interface (MMI) with voice control function that provides convenience to connect phone and audio system via Bluetooth. Some safety and handling features include airbags, ABS with ESP, keyless ingress, traction control, hill launch and hill descent assist. The Ford EcoSport will be a sub 4-meter car, still it will boast about 20 storage bins, of which cooled glove-box takes center stage, along with drawer below seats and about 560L of space after folding 60:40 rear seats.

Ford EcoSport breaks cover in Europe

07 September, 2012 : The upcoming compact offering from Ford Motors, Ford EcoSport was recently unveiled for the European auto market in Amsterdam, Netherlands. This unwrapping in Europe triggers the chances of launch in India are near. Moreover this is the same model that was launched in Brazil sometime back. Here this compact SUV Ford EcoSport will possess a daring threat to contenders like Renault Duster, Premier Rio and impending Mahindra Quanto mini SUV.

Ford EcoSport SUV production takes off in China

5 September, 2012 : The head-on rival to Renault Duster, Ford EcoSport production model was spied testing with near its China-based manufacturing plant. This signals that the potent compact crossover Ford EcoSport’s launch in India is nearing. Moreover Chinese automotive market is expected to see its debut by early next year. After which it will be officially rolled out in the country. Chang’an-Ford collaboration in China is producing Ford EcoSport models for the country. Furthermore, Volkswagen India is also planning to launch a mini crossover based on Volkswagen Polo’s platform that will again rival Ford EcoSport India version.

Ford EcoSport Titanium Diesel test mule spied

19 June, 2012: Ford Motors India now seems all buckled up for the launch of their upbeat compact SUV Ford EcoSport in India, and that too before Renault Duster debut.  The spotted car was a proper production version with rear reading Titanium TDCi alongside no covering and hide-n-seek. The French carmaker is planning to launch Duster by next month. However, the industry insiders believe that Ford will launch Ford EcoSport during the festive season.  Both the compact SUVs will clash on majority of the aspects that includes the vital factor of pricing that is projected to be kept under Rs 9 Lakh for the two vehicles.

Ford Ecosport may boast an Automatic Transmission

14 April, 2012 : Ford Ecosport that awaits its launch by festive season of Diwali this year is expected to offer a variant with Automatic Transmission (AT) too. There are reports that this AT will be none other than existing ‘PowerShift Automatic’ that is serving Ford Fiesta sedan in India. These days’ car buyers prefer to have AT in their vehicle for hassle free gear shifts. Recently, its to-be arch rival Renault Duster was also in news with a similar buzz of getting an AT mechanism in the top end model.

Ford Ecosport Price

The Ford Ecosport price is expected to be INR 8 lakh for the base level model, while the top end model with 6-speed dual clutch transmission is estimated to read a price label INR 10 lakh. The compact crossover has got a perfect size for the city drives and loads of high-tech features, which will be a part of top model. With this price point, it will have a better chance to not only grab the SUV market, but also, eat away the market stake of entry level premium sedans and premium hatchbacks in the country.pied.

Ford Ecosport Review by Expert

Ford India had been doing aggressive promotion of their impending Ford Ecosport. The 2012 Auto Expo displayed vehicle has got everything, or more than that, in an all new compact form. However, with the unveiling of the Ford Ecosport production model at 2012 Beijing Auto Show it is now clear that it will soon be touching the Indian shores.  

The new SUV will sport a 1.0 litre, Ecoboost, 3-cylinder, petrol engine that will deliver more than expected power and torque. Ford has indicated to add an array of powerful engines to the mini SUV lineup after initial launch of 1.0 litre Ecoboost power-train. The subsequent motor is expected to be tried and tested engine of 1.5L TDCi turbo diesel that currently performs its duties on Ford Fiesta sedan. The Ford Ecosport has been popular compact SUV in Brazilian market where it took its birth. The four-door mini SUV is based on an all new platform that comes added with sporty look and features some scintillating new characteristics.

As far as the appearance and dimensions of the New Ford SUV are concerned, the Ford Ecosport is full stretched 4-meter-plus mini SUV, hence it will not boast a small-car tag, and also it carries all the aspects of a complete full sized SUV. It is not at all a bigger sized or a stretched hatchback that was speculated in some of the earlier reports. It has all the qualities to qualify for an SUV, which are sporty and upright stance, spare wheel mounted on tailgate, higher ground clearance, bold and futuristic front grille view that are all inspired by the new American design language, which debuted in India with the launch of Ford Fiesta.

The Ford Ecosport is expected to be launched in India by end of 2012 with the promising and ultra frugal 1.0L EcoBoost petrol engine that has the choice of 5-speed manual transmission along with the convenience of 6-speed PowerShift Automatic transmission too; which currently does its duties on Ford Fiesta sedan.

Ford Ecosport Rivals

One of the most promising and anticipated EcoBoost engine powered compact SUV Ford EcoSport that sees a launch by yearend will provoke the likes of Maruti Ertiga. The newly created compact utility vehicle segment got wings with the recent introduction of Maruti MPV, while prior to that, there was no such slot in the Indian automotive sector. Ford EcoSport will be pitted against Ertiga in every aspect from its flamboyant exteriors to class leading interiors along with delivery of optimum mileage. If all the elements of Ford SUV match the MPV, then the decisive factor will be its price label at which it will be marketed in the country.

 

Although, many vital things are out in the open since Ford EcoSport’s global unveiling at 2012 Delhi Auto Expo earlier this year. In terms of styling, Ford SUV comes with new American design language, at the same time; Ertiga borrows its characteristics and many elements from its hot selling stable-mates in the form of Maruti Swift and Maruti Ritz. Nevertheless, it all ends up in carving out an aptly designed vehicle inside-out. Here, Maruti presents Ertiga with dual choices of fuels, while Ford EcoSport will be available in solo option of petrol powered motor. The other interesting piece to witness will be the ‘mileage’, and the same will play--a more than ‘huge’ factor-- in the success of this capable SUV.  And with Ertiga already up via price tag, reading INR 5.89 Lakh (ex showroom, Delhi) the road seems pretty tough for EcoSport even months before its official launch.

 

Ford EcoSport Direct Rivals Table
Model	Engine	Mileage (City/Highway)	Acceleration (0-100 kph)	Unique features	Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi)
Ford EcoSport Petrol	998 cc	14 kmpl/ 19 kmpl	13-14 seconds	mileage, astounding looks, compact	Rs 7-8 Lakh (expected)
Ford EcoSport Diesel	1499 cc	16 kmpl/ 21 kmpl	15-17 seconds		Rs 8-9 Lakh (expected)
Premier Rio Petrol	1173 cc	12 kmpl/ 16 kmpl	17 seconds	in-expensive, first compact SUV, acceptable looks	Rs 5.36 Lakh
Premier Rio Diesel	1489 cc	14 kmpl/ 19 kmpl	19 seconds		Rs 5.87 Lakh
Maruti Ertiga Petrol	1372 cc	13.5 kmpl/ 16.2 kmpl	13 seconds	value for money, features, Maruti assurance	Rs 7.29 Lakh
Maruti Ertiga Diesel	1248 cc	17.5 kmpl/ 20.77 kmpl	15 seconds		Rs 8.44 Lakh

 

 

Ford EcoSport Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Since the unveiling of Ford EcoSport at the 2012 Auto Expo, Ford Motors is trying magnetize car buyers with the ‘optimum mileage’ element apart from its superlative exterior design. The engine that will take care of the petrol version will be none other than innovative EcoBoost power train, whereas the frugal diesel companion is expected to be 1.5L duratorq engine that does duty on Ford Figo. As far as the Ford EcoSport mileage numbers are concerned, it is said that it will deliver near about 20% more efficiency than any conventional 1.6L petrol engine, which comes up to 19 kmpl of mileage on the highways alongside 14 kmpl is expected to be delivered in city conditions. Moreover, the efficiency extracted through the tested 1499cc diesel motor will be of 16 kmpl in city drives and 21 kmpl on open roads.

 

Model	Mileage (City)	Mileage (Highway)
Ford EcoSport Petrol	14 kmpl	19 kmpl
Ford EcoSport Diesel	16 kmpl	21 kmpl

Ford Ecosport Models and Features

Ford Ecosport Models	Features
Ford EcoSport 1.0L EcoBoost engine	Ford EcoSport 1.0L EcoBoost engine that uses Twin independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) is an immensely potential petrol powered engine that has some unusual capabilities to churn out a maximum power equivalent to that of a 1.6L motor and that too against producing less CO2 emissions.  This power train generates 120 PS of maximum output together with maximum torque of 170 Nm.
Ford EcoSport 1.5L TDCi diesel engine	This Ford EcoSport 1.5L TDCi turbo diesel engine holds the trust of earlier all-new Ford Fiesta that is more powerful than the 1.6L engine that currently serves Fiesta Classic with maximum power of 91 Bhp at 3750 rpm along with peak torque of 204 Nm at 2000-2750rpm.
Ford Ecosport 1.0L EcoBoost AT	The 6-speed dual clutch Automatic Transmission version will hold more or less the same features as the standard manual transmission one. And these include aspects like modern air conditioner, voice command controls and high quality seat fabric along with black and silver accents on the dash and panel in the front.

Altogether, the Ford EcoSport will be firstly introduced with 1.0L petrol EcoBoost power-train along with three variants to choose from. These variants will have no change under their hood, but they will be packed with some more or less different features to create their own identity. The 1.5L TDCi turbo diesel engine will follow in next, after the successful launch of petrol version, in order to delight the diesel engine admirers in the country.

Ford Ecosport Colors

There are chances that Ford EcoSport colors will be very vibrant alongside being attractive to arrest the attention of young car buyers in the country. It is expected to launch with 6 shades that comprise of Arctic White, Gray Cambridgeshire, Blue Marau, Silver Riviera and Black Ebony together with Red Harpooner.

Blue Marau	Gray Cambridgeshire	Silver Riviera	Arctic White	Red Harpooner	Black Ebony

Ford Ecosport Engine, Power and Performance

Keeping in mind the needs and demands of its consumers globally Ford Motors has developed a rugged yet frugal petrol engine; which is eco-friendly too, in the form of EcoBoost powertrain. This award winning 1.0L EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine has the backing and acclamation of numerous mechanical evaluators world-wide. This motor of compact SUV Ford EcoSport is courageous enough to be taken on any terrain under whichever weather conditions. The Ford EcoSport's EcoBoost engine has advanced turbo-charging mechanism with direct injection feature that is mated with enhanced double variable camshaft design.

This new environment friendly engine generates reduced emissions of around 20 percent that comes up to release of less than 140g/km CO2 emissions. With this innovative engine the vehicle will churn out a maximum power of 120 PS together with outmost torque of 170 Nm. This frugal green motor will be mated to 5-speed manual transmission or an optional dual-clutch 6-speed PowerShift Automatic Transmission (AT), which is currently doing duties under the bonnet of Ford Fiesta sedan. The other expected engine counterpart will be the reliable 1.5L TDCi turbo-diesel with intercooler. With this power-train, it achieves maximum power of 91 Bhp of raw power together with peak torque of 204 Nm. This engine will also be coupled with the same 5-speed gearbox or the regular 6-speed Powershift automatic gearbox.

Ford Ecosport Pickup and Acceleration

Engine Variant	Max. Power	Max. Torque	Pickup (0-100 kmph)	Top Speed
1.0L EcoBoost Petrol	120PS @ 6000rpm	170Nm @1300-4500rpm	15-17 secs	160 kmph
1.5L TDCi Turbo Diesel	80PS @ 3750rpm	160Nm @ 2000-2750rpm	13-14 secs	182 kmph

The Ford EcoSport will surely zoom ahead in a jiffy with its magical 1.0L EcoBoost Petrol engine has some amazing numbers to showcase. While the following 1.5L Diesel motor that will offer some fitting figures. The 120 PS of max power and 170 Nm peak torque generating power train i.e. 1.0L EcoBoost engine will race from nothing to 100 kph within 15-17 seconds. Though, the speedometer will read the top speed of 160 kmph, when driven to the fullest on open road. The other champion power-train of 1.5L diesel will climb to the 100 kph mark in a mere time span of 13-14 seconds together with the top speed of nearly 182 kmpl, which will be incredible compared to others present in the segment. This super power pickup will be provided with the support of 5-speed manual transmission and 6-speed PowerShift Automatic gearbox. Looking at these key numbers of Ford EcoSport acceleration the competitors will definitely fall flat.

Ford Ecosport Interiors and Features

 It would be wrong to attribute hard-hitting SUV features to Ford EcoSport as it has as much comfort and convenience elements in it, like any other premium sedan. In addition, the comfort, convenience and versatility attributes get pure manifestation in the SUV in full swing. The high elevated stance of five-seater Ford EcoSport gives a commanding position to the driver along with easy access at central console buttons. The wide windscreen ahead gives a clear view of the road and surroundings.

The modern cockpit design of Ford EcoSport has smart looking sporty steering wheel that has mounted controls for audio and phone, while there is SYNC feature that follows voice commands with ease making driving more pleasurable and undisturbed for the driver. There is silver finished gear knob for effortless gear shifting at any instance as per your convenience.

The fine quality fabric in Ford EcoSport interiors is offered in latest patterns and pulsating colors to suit every mood of the consumers. Furthermore, there are many comfort features inside this machine that make it a sheer pleasure to be in. There are storage compartments of more than 21 liters overall along with 20 locations that includes under the passenger seat, cooled glove box  and cup holders besides map holder on the front seats for optimum handiness. The air conditioning system with advanced auto climate control and pollen filters provides efficiency as well as coziness inside the cabin.

There are some premium comfort features of Ford EcoSport such as remote operated door opening and closing in addition to the traditional power windows or trip meter. The music system inside will also be equipped with my connection that gives the ease of connecting your phone to the system so that you remain connected and in touch with the world outside. Besides you can also connect it to your iPod or USB in order to enjoy sheer music from the quality music player. Moreover, to increase the space inside Ford EcoSport, the rear seat can be folded via Quick-fold system.

Ford Ecosport Exteriors and Features

The Ford EcoSport was earlier said to be a sub-four meter incarnation of an SUV, but since it’s unveiling at 2012 Auto Expo all the perception got shattered as it measures more than 4 meters. The vehicle has got pure robust design and confident upright stance of that goes out-an-out to create unique appeal of the Ford EcoSport. The frontage carries contemporary slanting headlamps frame with a high-mounted trapezoidal grille that bestows the sturdy vehicle an element of gratification and a signature Ford face with its bold emblem in between.

The compact SUV has got every bit of thing that is required to get qualified for the a proper SUV from its applauding aerodynamics that has the sense of New American design language together with a rear-mounted spare wheel.  While the area from the bonnet to the bumpers and air dam throws an appearance as if the SUV is ready for ultimate action.

Looking at it from a distance it gives a clear impression that it has a decent stance with the bonnet placed at a height and posing sufficient big ground clearance for the Ford EcoSport SUV. The exterior set it apart from being an on roader and clearly demark it as belonging to the SUV family and it has exterior which has courageous design and pronounced proportions.

The rear is as appealing as the front with the rear windscreen looking as if it is pillar-less besides the prominent and futuristic taillights that are extended towards the tailgate as well along with being high mounted for maximum visibility for the vehicle approaching from behind. The rear bumper has multi reflectors embedded on it for extra safety.  With enough ground clearance, the car is expected to do well on even the bumpy Indian roads and the really rugged off roads in the countryside.

Safety Features in Ford Ecosport

If it’s a Sports Utility Vehicle safety concerns are always there, but relax with Ford you are in safe hands as it is sure to provide best in class safety elements in the Ford EcoSport. This is what Ford Ecosport seems to believe it in its truest spirit. The front brakes will have ventilated disc brakes with floating caliper while the rear braking is drum type with shoes that have self-centering and automatic adjustment with wear and tear.

Safety features in Ford Ecosport's all variants are expected to boast Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and EBD (Electronic Distribution of Brakes) in company with the driver and passenger side airbags. Furthermore, the parking sensors and rear camera along with a wider roof spoiler can make its way when the vehicle gets official launch in India. It can also feature the modern technology of automatic door-locks once the ignition is switched on apart from the power windows that are one touch-up type with anti-crushing and timer facility that enables the vehicle to close the windows after the vehicle is shutdown.

Driving and Handling of Ford Ecosport

There are numerous features that will make the Ford EcoSport a convinced winner in its segment. Some of these can be front passenger handle security, split folding rear seat, front seat belt height adjustment, 3-point retractable seat belts, rear window defroster, Towing hook (front / rear); lighting in the trunk, rear window wiper and washer etc. besides other features will surely make the driving expensive astonishing.

Moreover, the power steering and height adjustable seats that enable better and comfortable driving experience. Believe it, maneuvering EcoSport in tough conditions is as easy as to cut butter, thanks to the agile power steering and stable suspension that makes the ride even smoother and makes handling safer in extreme conditions.

Ford Ecosport Accessories

The compact SUV Ford Ecosport has loads of accessories available both standard and add on ones. Among the standard accessories are height adjustable wheels, driver seat, antenna, AC with heater, rear window defroster with rear window washer and wiper, PATS-Anti-theft system besides others.

There is so much that will be coming as optional accessories for Ford EcoSport buyers to re-create their vehicle in such a manner that it has its own unique identity when compared to other EcoSport owners. There will be premium leather seat covers available as option in order to grant your vehicle an ultra-premium and elite look. The other garnishing that Ford EcoSport is expected to shoulder are a set of sun-visors to prevent exposition of the passengers to sun in hot weather along with full-sized roof carrier and a broad nudge guard for extra protection at the front bumper to allow a masculine feel at the front grille. And to make you feel at home there is a small car-size refrigerator for optimal convenience in hot weather.  

In Brazil where the Ford Ecosport has shown consistent sales, Ford also provides a ‘Build your EcoSport’ option wherein the customer can choose the engine, accessories, color and other features of the car to make it truly exclusive as per your choice. Hope such one of its kind campaign be followed in India as well by Ford Motors.

Ford Ecosport Conclusion

Looking at the popularity of Ford Ecosport in Brazil, and around the globe it would not be an exaggeration to call it a true compact SUV with the seal of satisfaction by its users. This second generation of Ford EcoSport that saw the global premiere in India at 2012 Auto Expo is expected to observe a worldwide official launch as well, when it is launched by amid this year in the country. The compact SUV is placed aptly between the sedan and a full sized SUV keeping in mind the urban conditions along with off­-road expertise. It features the luxury and sophistication of a complete car when you are in city and new form arrives when you take it out to countryside for adventurous journey.

Up till now, nothing has gone against the Ford EcoSport, but coming time will tell a perfect story   about more of its merits along with some shortcomings. Moreover, the price will play a vital make-or-break fixation; if it’s priced right it will surely become a household name after its launch. In India, the Ford Ecosport has really good prospects provided the American automotive giant prices it reasonably. Lesser the price is equals to higher the chances of its being at a win-win situation in the country. As it is much-more than a modern approach of transportation.