Why Should You Buy- 2017 Ford EcoSport

Introduction 

Ford has launched the 2017 EcoSport range in India at Rs 7.31 lakhs (All-India ex-showroom). There are 10 variants, a new face, updated feature list and rounding off the package is a new 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. The EcoSport was a bold move by Ford in 2013 as there were no other vehicles like it four years ago and to create a whole new segment was a bit of a risk. At a time when diesel powertrains was uppermost on everyone’s mind, Ford also brought petrol engine options for the EcoSport including its award winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine motor. The car has come a long way since 2013 and here then are the highs and lows of buying the 2017 EcoSport. 

What’s good about it?

You get big muscle in a small package and this means that attention is guaranteed for the EcoSport. But at the same time, the hatchback-like dimensions means it is easy to park and manoeuvre. What’s more, it now gets the segment standard features and can stand up to the rivals when compared to the outgoing model. The SUV design also ensures that it will be on the radar of those who want a compact car, but for the road less travelled.

Finally, it is the only compact SUV in the segment to be offered with a petrol automatic option. This opens up the EcoSport to a set of buyers that would have previously shied away from looking at the compact SUV segment due to the lack of diversity both in terms of petrol engines as well as two-pedal setups. 

What’s bad about it?

The dimensions haven’t changed as compared to the outgoing model and this means it is still a bit of a squeeze to fit three abreast in the rear section. The quality of some of the plastics while being long lasting, feels low grade. This would have been fine a few years ago but now the competition has moved ahead and the EcoSport seems visibly behindhand.  Our expert reviewers also felt the need for more mid-range from the petrol motor in the D-mode.    

The best variant to buy

We would recommend the Titanium variant in the both the petrol and diesel options as they get most of the features in terms of infotainment as well safety. 

Quick Facts

Price range

Petrol - Rs 7.31 lakhs to Rs 10.99 lakhs 

Diesel - Rs 8.01 lakhs to Rs 10.67 lakhs 

Specifications 

Petrol 1.5-litre 123bhp/150Nm 

Diesel 1.5-litre 98bhp/205Nm 

Transmission - five-speed manual/six-speed automatic for petrol, five-speed manual for diesel, Front Wheel Drive   

Did you know?

The entire world’s supply of Right-hand drive EcoSport models is produced at the American automaker’s plant outside Chennai.