2017 Ford EcoSport facelift India launch next month
28th Sep 2017 12:40 pm
Upcoming refreshed EcoSport boasts a number of exterior and interior changes; will debut Ford's Dragon series of petrol engines.
Ford is slated to launch a heavily updated EcoSport sometime next month replete with a fresh face, more features and a new set of petrol engines. Here’s a list of everything you need to know about it:
1. It’s a proper “face” lift:
Most of the cosmetic changes to the updated EcoSport are concentrated in its face. There's a new hexagonal grille and sharp, angular headlamps that look a lot like the newer Ford models as well as a redesigned front bumper and fog lamps. The alloy wheels feature a new design as well. The refreshed EcoSport, however, will remain more or less unchanged in profile and round the back and will continue to get the tailgate mounted spare wheel.
2. It gets new interior design too:
Ford has changed a fair amount on the inside too. The basic design of the dash is more or less the same, but the centre console gets a new layout and is crowned by a large touchscreen infotainment system. The instrument cluster and steering wheel are also all new and the cabin gets body-coloured inserts instead of silver ones on the current car.
3. New petrol engines will be on offer:
Ford’s all-new Dragon series of petrol engines will make its Indian debut in the updated EcoSport. Leading the charge will be a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder unit that will be good for about 120hp. A 1.2-litre, three-cylinder motor may also join the ranks for lower variants. The other engine options will include the same 100hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine, and probably the 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol too.
4. It will feature new tech:
The updated EcoSport will receive the new aforementioned touchscreen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 3 software, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is also expected to get cruise control, a speed limiter function, a rear-view camera and automatic climate control.
5. It faces stiff competition:
The EcoSport didn't face tough competition when it was launched in 2012. But today, its sales are under pressure from rivals like the critically acclaimed Maruti Brezza and the soon-to-be-launched Tata Nexon. The substantial updates on the upcoming model should arm it to take on the competition better.