Ford EcoSport
We’ve been tracking the EcoSport for quite some time and can confirm
the final few details on Ford’s exciting new mini-SUV. First and
foremost is to do with the EcoSport’s length. Ford has been cagey about
the EcoSport’s dimensions, but we now know for sure it will be a
sub-four metre vehicle. That means the EcoSport qualifies as a small car
and will avail of a lower rate of excise duty. We hear Ford is looking
at a really aggressive price tag for the EcoSport so we won’t be too
surprised if the base model retails for under Rs 6 lakh.
Another piece of good news is that the production model looks very
similar to the concept that was first shown at the Auto Expo 2012. Its
tall stance and chunky styling are pure SUV and that’s sure to be a huge
draw for Indian buyers. Adding brawn to the design is the lagre
trapezoidal grille, cladding on the lower front bumper and side sills
and fixed spare wheel at the back. However, the large wheel arches also
make the EcoSport’s 16-inch wheels look small and we expect the Indian
car to get 17-inchers. As on the concept, the roof gets chrome rails and
the rear side windows have the familiar Ford upwards kink in the window
line.
As expected, the EcoSport will also share many cabin components
with the Fiesta and the dashboard is similar in design too. There should
be decent space for four occupants but boot space will be no larger
than a hatchback’s. Interestingly, the EcoSport’s touch sensitive and
electric operated boot release is hidden in the tail light cluster.
Like the Fiesta, the EcoSport is underpinned by Ford’s global
B-platform, so excellent dynamics are almost a given on this mini-SUV.
The EcoSport will also be sold with the 1.5-litre diesel engine as
offered on the Fiesta but the big news is the debut of Ford’s latest
1-litre EcoBoost petrol motor. While its small displacement may suggest
otherwise, the engine benefits from turbocharging and direct injection
to make it just as powerful as a 1.6-litre motor while being more
efficient at the same time. What remains to be seen is if Indian buyers
will readily take to such a small capacity motor.
Ford thinks it has the right product for the Indian market. We’ll know when the EcoSport hits Indian roads in early 2013.
Factfile:
Engines: 1.2-litre petrol, 1.5-litre diesel
Power/Torque: NA, 88.7bhp/20.8kgm
Kerb weight: NA
L/W/H: NA
Expected: Early 2012
Price: Rs 6-7.5 lakh
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