Ford EcoSport: Urban Warrior

Is it a hatchback on stilts or a crossover? This is the most talked about compact SUV from the stable of Ford.

Ford had promised to launch a compact SUV that would change the face of the automobile market. Now after a year, the EcoSport happily basks in the knowledge that it has retained more than 90 percent of the looks sported by the concept vehicle showcased at the Auto Expo in New Delhi in 2012. The good news for everyone is that the EcoSport should hit dealerships in June, but for now, it’s time for us to take a spin in the famed 1.0-litre EcoBoost variant.

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Keeping in mind that the EcoSport is made to tackle the urban jungle, this sub-4 metre vehicle has a fresh look. The imposing, high-mounted front hexagonal grille delights the senses and is crafted not just to please the eye, but to improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics too. An impressive 200 mm ground clearance allows the EcoSport to sail through potholes and over speed breakers.

The EcoSport looks familiar from the inside with the Fiesta’s space-age protruding dashboard making an appearance. Contrary to popular belief, the car feels spacious. The front seats are the best in the segment, as they are supportive, though they lack thigh support. I asked a 6-feet-tall person weighing around 115 kg to sit in the driver’s seat and adjust it according to his comfort. When I sat in the rear seat, I measured an impressive two-finger distance between the front seat and my knees. But for utmost comfort, it would be best for two to sit behind the driver. The reclinable rear seats split 60:40, thus increasing the boot space.

The EcoSport comes in four variants – the 1.5-litre diesel, the 1.5-litre petrol, which also comes with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, and the 1-litre EcoBoost petrol (the one we drove in Goa was fitted with the EcoBoost engine). It is propelled by a compact engine that churns out a healthy 123 BHP. Turn the ignition on and the silent 3-cylinder heart barely hums, something we hadn’t expected. Step on the pedal and the EcoSport cheerfully accelerates even amidst city traffic. The 5-speed gearbox complements the engine with its precise gear ratios and as long as you’re in the city, the vehicle doesn’t lack power. However, when you get on the highway or in the hills, the vehicle starts to huff and puff. The power lag is so evident that overtaking is only possible in third gear. If you want to step on the gas you need to wait for the needle to cross 1500 rpm.

The EcoSport comes with voice command technology called SYNC, powered by Microsoft, which lets you make calls, choose music and manage the system’s features. It also comes with all-India 108 Emergency Services: through SYNC, it sends voice SOS messages to 108 operators if the airbags are deployed or the fuel pump is shut off. The EcoSport is appealing and has adequate space for four adults, has a fuel-efficient engine, and comes with innovative features. We expect it to range from ₹7 lakh to ₹11 lakh.

• The eye catching central console is taken from the new Ford Fiesta. The cabin, on the other hand, feels spacious.
• Apart from arm rests, this compact SUV also comes with lumbar support which ensures a relaxed driving posture.
• The rear seats get sufficient knee room and are comfortable. They split 60:40, increasing the boot space.

Car specs: Ford EcoSport

• Price: ₹7-11 lakh (approx)
• Engine: 1-litre EcoBoost
• Power: 123bhp @ 6000rpm
• Torque: 169Nm @ 1400rpm
• Ground clearance: 200mm

From the June 2013 issue of FHM India.