Ford Ecosport

Ford Ecosport likely to come with a price tag of Rs.6 lakh

29 March, 2013:The most awaited SUV, Ecosport from the house of American auto major Ford is an important poduct for the brand as it is expected to be the fortune changer and the SUV segment has been the hot spot in the Indian market that can earn the brand a name as well moolahs. So it is very important for Ford to price Ecosport competitively in order to win the war against Renault Duster and Mahindra XUV 500 both of which have already won the hearts of Indian audience and are star sellers of their respective manufacturers. Ford is likely to put a tag of around Rs. 6 lakh to lure the buyers of B+ hatchbacks.

Win a Ford EcoSport and 10 iPads

1 March, 2013: Ford has started the marketing of EcoSport which hints that the vehicles launch is just around the corner. There is a new video doing rounds on interweb and television which showcases, “Ford EcoSport Urban Discoveries Campaign”. This campaign like a competition is conducted across ten key Indian cities where the participants have to show off something exclusive to their own city. Narrowing it to 35 entries, Ford then will give those 35 people a chance to win an all new Ford EcoSport by handing over a TV crew and an exclusive EcoSport to take it those exclusive places and shoot video which will decide the final winner. 10 lucky followers of the winning team will get iPads.

Ford Ecosport launch confirmed at twitter

20 February, 2013: Ford Motors new update on a social media website suggests that the days for the Ecosport launch are now numbered and not vague anymore. The American auto majors Twitter update speaks that the company has set the stage for the launch of Ford Ecosport and is soon going to make the big announcement regarding the date of the launch. Renault Duster’s arch rival, Ford Ecosport is said to carry the same characteristics that will change the fate and face of Ford here in India.  A compact SUV by make, Ford Ecosport will come in both petrol and diesel avatars.

Ford EcoSport to deliver 17 kms a litre

5 January, 2013 : Ford EcoSport, the eagerly awaited compact SUV from Ford, is set to be launched in India by the month of March. Ford EcoSport mileage figures are excellent even for the petrol version, thanks to the 1 litre EcoBoost engine. As per ARAI, the SUV is capable of returning a high 17 kms a litre, with this high fuel economy numbers, the SUV is all set to give a tough competition to its arch rival Renault Duster that has hit the bull’s eye. Ford EcoSport price in India is likely to be placed between Rs 7 lakh to Rs 9 lakh; at this pricing it is going to be a tough competitor for Mahindra Quanto.

Ford EcoSport: awarded ‘Best SUV’ in Brazil 

27 December, 2012: Ford EcoSport is in limelight again, this time it gets honored in Brazil with Best SUV for 2012. The award presented by leading online portal and magazine is 20th award, in all, this year, bestowed to Ford Motor products globally. In the race to No.1 title Ford EcoSport surpassed likes of Honda CR-V and Chevrolet Spin in Brazil. Design engineering, performance, hi-tech innovation, passenger & driver safety, occupant comfort and lesser CO2 emissions were parameters on which Ford EcoSport stood upright. With India launch of Ford EcoSport slated by March 2013 competitors Renault Duster and Mahindra Quanto seem ready to bit the dust.

Ford EcoSport with long-wheel-base unveiled

23 November, 2012: The production version of New Ford EcoSport that is recently unveiled in China will carry long-wheel-base.  This China-specific 2013 Ford EcoSport model holds a 39 mm of overall length, while the wheel base is of extended by 9 mm, compared to the Brazilian and expected Indian model. The Chinese car buyers love increased wheel base for vehicle, hence Ford Motors has decided to present the newer Ford EcoSport compact SUV with long wheel base. By March 2013, launch of Ford EcoSport is slated giving its rivals Renault Duster, Maruti Ertiga and Mahindra Quanto a reasonable challenge in the compact segment.

Ford EcoSport AT caught on lenses

12 October, 2012: Expected to launch by March next year, the Ford EcoSport news 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 March 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 7-9 lakh.

Ford EcoSport production to take-off by Feb’ 2013

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 Price

The Ford Ecosport price is expected to be INR 7 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 9 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 March 2013 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.

Ford EcoSport Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Ford Ecosport Models and Features

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

Click Here to see more Ford Ecosport Photos

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

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.

Ford EcoSport FAQs

Q1: What will be the mileage of Ford EcoSport?
Answer: As per the company the Ford EcoSport mileage will be very impressive although certified figures are not out. However, the expected overall mileage from 1.0L EcoBoost petrol engine will be around 14-17 kmpl. Moreover the 1.5L TDCI diesel motor is estimated to deliver an approx mileage of 16-21 kmpl.   

Q2: Will compact SUV Ford EcoSport be available in AT variant?   
Answer: Initially it is said to be launched with petrol and diesel engines with manual transmissions, while after couple of months Ford EcoSport AT will be introduced.  

Q3: What will be the price of Ford EcoSport compact SUV in India?
Answer: The market has become very aggressive since the launch of Renault Duster SUV; as a result the Ford EcoSport price is projected to open with Rs 7-8 lakh for base petrol model.    

Q4: Are there any chances of Ford EcoSport 4X4 launch?
Answer: Of course there are. Ford Motors is expected to bring in variety of Ford EcoSport models at the time of launch hence the hope for 4X4 mechanism in EcoSport bonnet cannot be ruled out.

Q5: When is the launch of Ford EcoSport in India?  
Answer: As per recent reports, Ford Motors will commence production by early 2013, and by March end, Ford EcoSport launch will take place in the country.