Ford EcoSport (Diesel) Review in Pictures
Ford gave the EcoSport a mild update late last year (in October). We try it out with the uprated diesel engine (now makes 100 PS) to see how well it has aged, given that it first appeared in the market in 2013.
The EcoSport now gets an LED strip below the headlamps and daytime running lamps (in the same housing as the front fog lamps). Styling might still be polarising, but it continues to grab attention.
Running on 16-inch tyres, the EcoSport offers good cushioning on bumpy roads, without proving to be too soft for spirited driving.
The OVRM-mounted mirrors look good, while the in-cabin unit comes with an auto-dimming feature.
The top-spec Titanium+ version which we tested also boasts keyless entry and go.
The SYNC system is easy to set up and operate, although the screen isn’t to everyone’s taste. Like most other Fords, it also surprises with a decent audio quality.
The doors open wide and have a heft to them, which takes some getting used to.
With plenty of bottle holders, Ford decided to make this one useless.
The boot still opens the wrong way, which means it’s not the best idea to open it when parked on the side of a busy road. Note the request button from the handle is gone.
Boot space with the rear seats up is claimed to 346 liters, which is certainly better than most hatchbacks in the price range.
Fold down the rear seats and it increases to a little above 700 liters.
The inclusion of a 12V socket for the rear passengers is a noble idea. The fit and finish is certainly very good. While the lesser Fords also get a similar cabin, the EcoSport’s feels much better.
The top-spec version gets six airbags (frontal, side, and curtain).
While the EcoSport offers a commanding view, if you like a low-set driving position, the height adjustable driver’s seat will be more than happy to oblige.
The steering can also be adjusted for both height and reach.
The indicator stalk has finally moved to the right side.
The EcoSport is stable at highway speeds, but is equally responsive to steering inputs, too. The turn-in has a huge scope of improvement, though.
The 1.5-liter diesel is now uprated to 100 PS and 205 Nm of torque. The power delivery is very linear, but while it misses out on the turbo-boost-driven surge, it makes up by offering better driveability. The unit doesn’t feel strained even at increased load.
The gearbox is easy to use and slots in properly. There is no automatic available on the diesel, though.
Look at it as a dynamic compact SUV and you’ll be happy with it. Start comparing it to similar-sized hatchbacks and you’ll be disappointed. With 200 mm of ground clearance and its crossover abilities, the EcoSport is a well-rounded product.
It is available in three engine and two transmission options: 1.5-liter petrol MT, 1.5-liter petrol AT, 1-liter turbocharged petrol MT, and 1.5-liter diesel MT. The 1.5-liter petrol sits at the bottom of the range, while the one we tested is the most feature-laden version. Prices start at Rs 7 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi, and go all the way up to Rs 10.65 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi.