supersunbird
Honorary Master
LOL, not poorly received in SA at all.
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2018 Ford EcoSport (Facelift)
- Thread starter FiestaST
- Start date
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ford EcoSport ST-Line Revealed
Ford has shown off an ST-Line Ecosport, which will make its public debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show next week
This new Ford EcoSport ST-Line features a sportier trim, the latest connectivity as well as an all-new diesel engine. Interestingly, all-wheel drive makes its debut too. The new engine in question is a 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, with 92 kW and 300 Nm. Power goes to all four wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. It's marketed as a cleaner engine, with a claim of 4.5 L/100 km and emissions of just 119 g/km. The Intelligent All Wheel Drive is able to adjust torque delivery up to 50/50 in as little as 20 milliseconds, which will aid grip in slippery conditions.
The new Ford EcoSport line-up will for the first time include the sporty new EcoSport ST-Line variant. It features unique Ford Performance-inspired bumpers and side skirts, black-finish roof rails and headlight bezels, 17-inch Dark Tarnish alloy wheels, ST-Line badging and extended painted roof and door mirrors as standard. The interior has a unique ST-Line leather-trimmed flat-bottomed steering wheel; unique partial leather seats with red stitching; leather handbrake lever and gear knob; ST-Line branded scuff plates; and stainless steel sports pedals.
As the new EcoSport is aimed at young buyers, the newcomer will be jammed with connectivity options. A brace of fast-charging USB ports up front, 12V power outlets front and rear, and even a 110V power outlet (for the rear passengers) will be available as an option. Ford's SYNC3 infotainment/connectivity system has been made fitted and there's a smart-looking 8-inch touchscreen. Ford is also boasting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in its new EcoSport.
"Ford has sold 150,000 EcoSport compact SUVs in Europe since we first introduced the model to the region in 2014, and last year sales grew 40 per cent," said Steven Armstrong, group vice president and president, Europe Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company. "The new Ford EcoSport offers customers even more style, comfort, capability and choice - blending rugged SUV functionality with city car practicality." The new Ford EcoSport for Europe will be built at Ford's manufacturing facility in Craiova, Romania, while the rest of the world's production comes from India.
http://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/ford-ecosport-st-line-revealed/43918/
Ford has shown off an ST-Line Ecosport, which will make its public debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show next week
This new Ford EcoSport ST-Line features a sportier trim, the latest connectivity as well as an all-new diesel engine. Interestingly, all-wheel drive makes its debut too. The new engine in question is a 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, with 92 kW and 300 Nm. Power goes to all four wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. It's marketed as a cleaner engine, with a claim of 4.5 L/100 km and emissions of just 119 g/km. The Intelligent All Wheel Drive is able to adjust torque delivery up to 50/50 in as little as 20 milliseconds, which will aid grip in slippery conditions.
The new Ford EcoSport line-up will for the first time include the sporty new EcoSport ST-Line variant. It features unique Ford Performance-inspired bumpers and side skirts, black-finish roof rails and headlight bezels, 17-inch Dark Tarnish alloy wheels, ST-Line badging and extended painted roof and door mirrors as standard. The interior has a unique ST-Line leather-trimmed flat-bottomed steering wheel; unique partial leather seats with red stitching; leather handbrake lever and gear knob; ST-Line branded scuff plates; and stainless steel sports pedals.
As the new EcoSport is aimed at young buyers, the newcomer will be jammed with connectivity options. A brace of fast-charging USB ports up front, 12V power outlets front and rear, and even a 110V power outlet (for the rear passengers) will be available as an option. Ford's SYNC3 infotainment/connectivity system has been made fitted and there's a smart-looking 8-inch touchscreen. Ford is also boasting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in its new EcoSport.
"Ford has sold 150,000 EcoSport compact SUVs in Europe since we first introduced the model to the region in 2014, and last year sales grew 40 per cent," said Steven Armstrong, group vice president and president, Europe Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company. "The new Ford EcoSport offers customers even more style, comfort, capability and choice - blending rugged SUV functionality with city car practicality." The new Ford EcoSport for Europe will be built at Ford's manufacturing facility in Craiova, Romania, while the rest of the world's production comes from India.
http://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/ford-ecosport-st-line-revealed/43918/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
While good looking, I can't help thinking that they copied the 2 tone from the Captur.....
supersunbird
Honorary Master
Hopefully that is just the ST...
ToxicBunny
Oi! Leave me out of this...
That 2 tone just destroys it for me.. I can't stand it..
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Compact crossover/SUV: Ford EcoSport leaving all in the dust
The Ford EcoSport headlines the category for the compact crossover and SUVs in August 2017, with a sales figure of 1071 units.
In second place the Hyundai Creta managed to find 438 new owners.
Strong run
Mazda sold 332 of its CX-3’s last month, making it the third best-selling vehicle in this category.
Behind the Mazda, the Renault Duster is in fourth place on 271 units, ahead of another Renault, the Captur, on 146 units.
Suzuki’s cute little Ignis found 144 new owners in sixth place; just ahead of the funky Toyota C-HR on 133 units.
Honda’s seven-seater, the BR-V, is in eighth place with 127 units sold, followed by another Honda, the HR-V, on 93 units.
The Opel Mokka X rounds out the top ten with 71 units.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_v...ord-ecosport-leaving-all-in-the-dust-20170922
The Ford EcoSport headlines the category for the compact crossover and SUVs in August 2017, with a sales figure of 1071 units.
In second place the Hyundai Creta managed to find 438 new owners.
Strong run
Mazda sold 332 of its CX-3’s last month, making it the third best-selling vehicle in this category.
Behind the Mazda, the Renault Duster is in fourth place on 271 units, ahead of another Renault, the Captur, on 146 units.
Suzuki’s cute little Ignis found 144 new owners in sixth place; just ahead of the funky Toyota C-HR on 133 units.
Honda’s seven-seater, the BR-V, is in eighth place with 127 units sold, followed by another Honda, the HR-V, on 93 units.
The Opel Mokka X rounds out the top ten with 71 units.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_v...ord-ecosport-leaving-all-in-the-dust-20170922
HAL 9000
Honorary Master
- Joined
- May 27, 2008
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Leaked: FULL brochure of EcoSport Facelift
The Ford EcoSport facelift will be soon launched in India and we'd recently reported that the new EcoSport will be offered in 5 variants – Ambiente, Trend, Trend+, Titanium and Titanium+. Now, a leaked brochure has revealed more details about the upcoming compact SUV.
The new EcoSport gets updated styling elements on the exteriors as well as interiors. It measures 3,998 mm in length, 1,765 mm in width and 1,647 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,519 mm. The EcoSport has a luggage capacity of 352 litres (1,178 litres with the rear seats folded) and a 52-litre fuel tank.
The front grille is offered in gloss black, silver and chrome on the base Ambiente, Trend and Titanium variants respectively.
All variants get halogen quad-beam reflector headlights except for the Titanium variants which get projector lights with LED DRLs.
Ford is offering 15-inch steel wheels on Ambiente and Trend variants, while Trend+ and Titanium versions ride on 16-inch steel rims and 16-inch alloys respectively. Only the top-spec Titanium+ variant gets 17-inch alloys.
Moving to the interiors, only the Titanium+ variant gets leather upholstery, while 60/40 split rear seat is available on the top 2 Titanium variants.
The 8.0-inch floating touchscreen infotainment screen is available only on the Titanium trims. The lower Trend trims get a 6.5-inch touchscreen instead. The base model misses out on the touchscreen unit, SYNC 3 with voice control and steering mounted controls.
Features like rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamps and rear-view camera are only available on the Titanium+ trim, while engine start/stop button and Smart Entry is offered on both Titanium variants.
Ford is also offering the MyKey feature on the Titanium variants which allows the owners to set speed warnings, activate seat belt reminder, limit the car's top speed and the audio volume. All variants get automatic climate control except for the base variant.
Trend+, Titanium and Titanium+ variants get power folding ORVMs and height adjustable driver’s seat.
As far as safety features are concerned, ABS with EBD and driver and passenger side airbags are standard across the range.
Rear parking sensors and high-speed warning is available on Titanium and Titanium+ versions, while EBA (Emergency Brake Assist), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), traction control, hill launch assist, ISOFIX child safety seat mounting points, cruise control with speed limiter and side and curtain airbags are only offered the Titanium+ variant.
Ford has already announced that the EcoSport facelift will get a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder Dragon Series petrol engine. This engine produces 121 BHP @ 6,500 rpm and 150 Nm of torque @ 4,500 rpm.
It will be offered with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters. The automatic option is available on Trend+ and Titanium+ trims.
Ford is carrying forward the diesel engine from the outgoing EcoSport. The 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine makes 99 BHP @ 3,750 rpm and 205 Nm of torque @ 1,750-3,250 rpm. The diesel engine comes paired solely with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The new EcoSport rides on independent McPherson strut type front suspension and semi-independent type in the rear. Brakes come in the form of ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear.
The ARAI fuel efficiency of the Petrol engine is rated at 17 km/l while that of the Diesel engine is 23 km/l.
According to the brochure, the EcoSport facelift will be offered in 7 colour options – Lightning Blue, Canyon Ridge, Race Red, Diamond White, Absolute Black, Moondust Silver and Smoke Grey.
Some of the accessories on offer include illuminated scuff plates, spare wheel cover, rear spoiler, rear seat entertainment system among others.
Source: https://www.team-bhp.com/news/leaked-full-brochure-ecosport-facelift
The Ford EcoSport facelift will be soon launched in India and we'd recently reported that the new EcoSport will be offered in 5 variants – Ambiente, Trend, Trend+, Titanium and Titanium+. Now, a leaked brochure has revealed more details about the upcoming compact SUV.
The new EcoSport gets updated styling elements on the exteriors as well as interiors. It measures 3,998 mm in length, 1,765 mm in width and 1,647 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,519 mm. The EcoSport has a luggage capacity of 352 litres (1,178 litres with the rear seats folded) and a 52-litre fuel tank.
The front grille is offered in gloss black, silver and chrome on the base Ambiente, Trend and Titanium variants respectively.
All variants get halogen quad-beam reflector headlights except for the Titanium variants which get projector lights with LED DRLs.
Ford is offering 15-inch steel wheels on Ambiente and Trend variants, while Trend+ and Titanium versions ride on 16-inch steel rims and 16-inch alloys respectively. Only the top-spec Titanium+ variant gets 17-inch alloys.
Moving to the interiors, only the Titanium+ variant gets leather upholstery, while 60/40 split rear seat is available on the top 2 Titanium variants.
The 8.0-inch floating touchscreen infotainment screen is available only on the Titanium trims. The lower Trend trims get a 6.5-inch touchscreen instead. The base model misses out on the touchscreen unit, SYNC 3 with voice control and steering mounted controls.
Features like rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamps and rear-view camera are only available on the Titanium+ trim, while engine start/stop button and Smart Entry is offered on both Titanium variants.
Ford is also offering the MyKey feature on the Titanium variants which allows the owners to set speed warnings, activate seat belt reminder, limit the car's top speed and the audio volume. All variants get automatic climate control except for the base variant.
Trend+, Titanium and Titanium+ variants get power folding ORVMs and height adjustable driver’s seat.
As far as safety features are concerned, ABS with EBD and driver and passenger side airbags are standard across the range.
Rear parking sensors and high-speed warning is available on Titanium and Titanium+ versions, while EBA (Emergency Brake Assist), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), traction control, hill launch assist, ISOFIX child safety seat mounting points, cruise control with speed limiter and side and curtain airbags are only offered the Titanium+ variant.
Ford has already announced that the EcoSport facelift will get a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder Dragon Series petrol engine. This engine produces 121 BHP @ 6,500 rpm and 150 Nm of torque @ 4,500 rpm.
It will be offered with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters. The automatic option is available on Trend+ and Titanium+ trims.
Ford is carrying forward the diesel engine from the outgoing EcoSport. The 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine makes 99 BHP @ 3,750 rpm and 205 Nm of torque @ 1,750-3,250 rpm. The diesel engine comes paired solely with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The new EcoSport rides on independent McPherson strut type front suspension and semi-independent type in the rear. Brakes come in the form of ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear.
The ARAI fuel efficiency of the Petrol engine is rated at 17 km/l while that of the Diesel engine is 23 km/l.
According to the brochure, the EcoSport facelift will be offered in 7 colour options – Lightning Blue, Canyon Ridge, Race Red, Diamond White, Absolute Black, Moondust Silver and Smoke Grey.
Some of the accessories on offer include illuminated scuff plates, spare wheel cover, rear spoiler, rear seat entertainment system among others.
Source: https://www.team-bhp.com/news/leaked-full-brochure-ecosport-facelift
supersunbird
Honorary Master
The steel wheel thing was limited to the Ambiente in SA, wonder if it will still be like that, I don't mind steel wheels.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
10 SA-bound compact SUVs worth waiting for
Ford EcoSport
Due in SA: 2018
South Africa’s best-selling compact crossover is due for a refresh soon, and although Ford SA can’t confirm exact timing at this stage, it has been earmarked for local introduction during the course of 2018.
The facelifted EcoSport gets a completely new look upfront, mimicking its Kuga big brother with a large trapezoidal grille positioned higher up and giving the vehicle a more truck-like appearance.
Local specifications have yet to be confirmed, but European customers now get the option of all-wheel-drive for the first time, as well as a new 1.5-litre 'EcoBlue' diesel engine.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/10-sa-bound-compact-suvs-worth-waiting-for-11876154
Ford EcoSport
Due in SA: 2018
South Africa’s best-selling compact crossover is due for a refresh soon, and although Ford SA can’t confirm exact timing at this stage, it has been earmarked for local introduction during the course of 2018.
The facelifted EcoSport gets a completely new look upfront, mimicking its Kuga big brother with a large trapezoidal grille positioned higher up and giving the vehicle a more truck-like appearance.
Local specifications have yet to be confirmed, but European customers now get the option of all-wheel-drive for the first time, as well as a new 1.5-litre 'EcoBlue' diesel engine.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/10-sa-bound-compact-suvs-worth-waiting-for-11876154
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ford Ecosport 2018 review
Should I buy one?
The Ecosport was difficult to recommend in its previous incarnation, and while Ford has made gains, the game has moved on commensurately, leaving the Ecosport once again adrift.
Its interior is now a match for any rival, and there’s an impressive array of technology as standard, but the less characterful, more competent Arona looks prettier and rides with the composure and class of a model from a larger segment.
It’s still the class leader and the rival that the Ecosport has failed to match.
Ford Ecosport 1.0 Ecoboost 140
Where Lisbon, Portugal On sale January 2018 Price £17,495 Engine 3cyls, 999cc, turbocharged petrol Power 138bhp at 6000rpm Torque 133lb ft at 1400-4000rpm Gearbox 6-spd manual Kerbweight 1337kg Top speed 116mph 0-62mph 11.8sec Fuel economy 54.3mpg CO2 rating 119g/km Rivals Seat Arona, Renault Captur, Kia Stonic, Citroën C3 Aircross
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/ford/ecosport/first-drives/ford-ecosport-2018-review
Should I buy one?
The Ecosport was difficult to recommend in its previous incarnation, and while Ford has made gains, the game has moved on commensurately, leaving the Ecosport once again adrift.
Its interior is now a match for any rival, and there’s an impressive array of technology as standard, but the less characterful, more competent Arona looks prettier and rides with the composure and class of a model from a larger segment.
It’s still the class leader and the rival that the Ecosport has failed to match.
Ford Ecosport 1.0 Ecoboost 140
Where Lisbon, Portugal On sale January 2018 Price £17,495 Engine 3cyls, 999cc, turbocharged petrol Power 138bhp at 6000rpm Torque 133lb ft at 1400-4000rpm Gearbox 6-spd manual Kerbweight 1337kg Top speed 116mph 0-62mph 11.8sec Fuel economy 54.3mpg CO2 rating 119g/km Rivals Seat Arona, Renault Captur, Kia Stonic, Citroën C3 Aircross
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/ford/ecosport/first-drives/ford-ecosport-2018-review
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Ford EcoSport Facelift (2018) International Launch Review
Ford has given its EcoSport compact family car a makeover and we attended the world launch of the updated model in Lisbon, Portugal to experience the changes first hand.
The EcoSport was first introduced in South Africa in 2013 and, despite the fact that the segment it has helped to establish is now far more competitive than 4 years ago (rivals include the Renault Captur, Suzuki Vitara and Hyundai Creta, to name a few), the Ford remains a bestseller. In fact, Ford has sold nearly 35 000 units in South Africa alone.
If you think this facelift is a mere nip and tuck, you’re mistaken: Ford has thoroughly enhanced its baby SUV to capitalise on seemingly inexhaustible global demand for compact SUVs. In fact, this latest EcoSport features more than 2 300 new parts.
Although the EcoSport's styling has always been inoffensive, the more grown-up and overtly-SUV styling cues are welcome.
What’s changed?
The first thing you may notice is that the latest iteration of the EcoSport features a new look; we think its exterior execution is bolder and more assertive than that of the current iteration.
Ford has incorporated styling cues from its larger Kuga family SUV: the front-end is now dominated by a large trapezoidal grille and flanked by angular headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. The rear features a revised bumper and tail light clusters.
Buyers will have the choice of 12 exterior colours and while the European market has the choice of a contrasting roof execution, this option won’t be offered in South Africa. As for wheels, various finishes will be offered with a choice of 17- and 18-inch wheel designs.
Local versions of the EcoSport will feature the characteristic spare-wheel-on-the-tailgate look, unlike this European-spec example.
Ford is also launching a sportier EcoSport ST-Line derivative in Europe, but it sadly it too won’t be offered in South Africa.
Also note that the South African-bound EcoSport (built in Romania and India) will have a full-size spare wheel attached to the tailgate. We prefer the look of the EcoSport without the spare wheel and are of the opinion that Ford SA should offer it as an option.
Interior design
Ford has introduced major improvements to the EcoSport’s interior, which draws inspiration from the all-new Fiesta (also due in SA in Q2 of 2018); the biggest revision is that the plastic-dominated, somewhat clumsy interior of the current EcoSport has been replaced.
To put it plainly: the interior overhaul is a breath of fresh air for the EcoSport. The soft-touch dashboard and newly designed fascia (with far fewer buttons than before) contribute to a cleaner, neater look overall and comfort has been enhanced with newly designed seats.
Ford's top-selling compact family car now sports a much more modern interior, replete with a raft of connectivity features.
Perhaps the most significant improvement to the EcoSport’s interior is the inclusion of SYNC 3, which is accessed via a new 8-inch colour touchscreen mounted on the dashboard in high-spec derivatives. A 6.5-inch touchscreen will also be offered on mid-grade derivatives while a simpler 4.2-inch screen will be offered on base models.
The system incorporates pinch and swipe functionality, much like a smartphone and is Bluetooth-enabled, while also being compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Prospective buyers will be happy to know that 2 USB ports are provided.
Music lovers are in for a treat as the EcoSport can be equipped with a sonorous 10-speaker B&O Play sound system, including a luggage bay-mounted subwoofer and a mid-range speaker integrated in the dashboard. The sound quality delivered by this new sound system is impressive and it certainly kept our heads bopping in Lisbon traffic.
While the side-opening rear door configuration is quite an anomaly these days, the Ford's loading capacity has improved a little.
Other notable features include a new 4.2-inch instrument cluster, cruise control with speed limiter, front and rear parking sensors with reverse camera, heated electrically-folding mirrors, Blind Spot Information System and Roll Stability Control. A total of 7 airbags are fitted as standard.
The luggage bay capacity has also improved with a height-adjustable floor that increases space to 334 litres. The floor is made from recycled material with honeycomb construction that can withstand weight up to 300 kg. With the 60/40 rear seats folded down, space increases to a useful 1 238 litres.
Exact specification for the South African market is yet to be finalised.
Engine choice
At this stage, only 2 engines are expected to power the EcoSport in South Africa. A 3-cylinder 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine with 92 kW/170 Nm of torque will be available to South African buyers. Average fuel consumption is claimed at 5.8 L/100 km.
Although the South African market won't offer the latest generation turbodiesel, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost remains a peach of an engine.
Ford is launching a new 92 kW/300 Nm 1.5-litre EcoBlue turbodiesel engine in Europe with all-wheel drive, but due to our poor local fuel quality, this engine is not coming to South Africa, which is a pity, because it’s a solid, refined engine that delivers good performance and reasonable fuel economy, as we discovered on our drive in Lisbon.
Instead, the current 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with peak outputs of 74 kW and 205 Nm will continue to do service in the local market (claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.6 L/100 km).
In terms of transmissions, a new, lightweight 6-speed manual transmission, the same as that earmarked for the new Fiesta, will replace the current 5-speed manual. A 6-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter is also on the way, which will replace the current 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Over and above improvements to the fit and finish of the EcoSport, its on-road demeanour remains comfortable and composed.
What’s it like to drive?
Our launch route started at Lisbon Airport behind the wheel of the SA-bound 92 kW /170 Nm, 1.0-litre Titanium automatic derivative. We found the engine offered just enough grunt for the average commute without feeling underpowered. It’s quite refined with minimal engine noise under normal driving conditions. However, if you mash the throttle pedal to extract more power, it becomes a bit more vocal (but it’s still mostly quite civilised).
The 6-speed automatic transmission seemed to be well matched with this engine and its shifts were relatively smooth and unobtrusive. Manual shift paddles behind the steering wheel allowed for further manipulation of the 3-pot’s performance. The steering is nicely weighted and communicative with good response to inputs.
The engine/transmission combination prefers a measured driving style to achieve the best driving experience; however, we were surprised to see an fuel consumption readout of around 9.9 L/100 km, which was somewhat disappointing considering that we weren’t thrashing the engine. Isn’t the point of a downsized engine to deliver better fuel economy?
We also sampled the new 6-speed manual transmission in the 1.5 EcoBlue diesel ST-Line (not coming to SA) and you will be happy to know that it’s an excellent gearbox with a solid, positive gear action.
Even though the Ford's user-friendly cabin comes well equipped, the lack of lateral support/bolstering on the front seats was a drawback.
As for the EcoSport’s ride quality, it’s comfortable and quite forgiving. It rides well overall and despite the poorer road surfaces experienced in the countryside on the outskirts of Lisbon, the EcoSport felt composed and managed to take bumps and imperfections in its stride.
Although handling isn’t a critical area for the EcoSport, the Ford still suffers from excessive body roll while cornering. This perception was exacerbated by the lack of side bolstering on the front seats, which left the driver and passenger sliding from side-to-side in the bends.
We also spent some time in the back of the EcoSport and found the aft accommodation sufficiently spacious and comfortable in terms of legroom, headroom and shoulder room.
We came away impressed with the new-look interior of the EcoSport. The cabin appeared to be solidly put together and not once was a squeak or rattle heard. We did, however, notice a fair amount of wind noise around the windows/mirrors at highway speed.
Strategic improvements to an already successful product bode well for the sales prospects of the updated Ford EcoSport.
Conclusion
The updated EcoSport seems a vastly improved product. Apart from the enhanced exterior styling, the changes to the interior improve the Ford’s purchasing proposition appreciably.
This updated EcoSport is bound to resonate well with South African buyers and if Ford SA can strike a good balance between spec and price, the revised EcoSport may even lure buyers away from other products in this segment. As long as the exchange rate remains stable and pricing competitive, Ford has another winner in this updated EcoSport.
Pricing and specification is yet to finalised but we will keep you informed as soon as more information becomes available.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/ford-ecosport-facelift-2018-international-launch-review/44426/
Ford has given its EcoSport compact family car a makeover and we attended the world launch of the updated model in Lisbon, Portugal to experience the changes first hand.
The EcoSport was first introduced in South Africa in 2013 and, despite the fact that the segment it has helped to establish is now far more competitive than 4 years ago (rivals include the Renault Captur, Suzuki Vitara and Hyundai Creta, to name a few), the Ford remains a bestseller. In fact, Ford has sold nearly 35 000 units in South Africa alone.
If you think this facelift is a mere nip and tuck, you’re mistaken: Ford has thoroughly enhanced its baby SUV to capitalise on seemingly inexhaustible global demand for compact SUVs. In fact, this latest EcoSport features more than 2 300 new parts.
Although the EcoSport's styling has always been inoffensive, the more grown-up and overtly-SUV styling cues are welcome.
What’s changed?
The first thing you may notice is that the latest iteration of the EcoSport features a new look; we think its exterior execution is bolder and more assertive than that of the current iteration.
Ford has incorporated styling cues from its larger Kuga family SUV: the front-end is now dominated by a large trapezoidal grille and flanked by angular headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. The rear features a revised bumper and tail light clusters.
Buyers will have the choice of 12 exterior colours and while the European market has the choice of a contrasting roof execution, this option won’t be offered in South Africa. As for wheels, various finishes will be offered with a choice of 17- and 18-inch wheel designs.
Local versions of the EcoSport will feature the characteristic spare-wheel-on-the-tailgate look, unlike this European-spec example.
Ford is also launching a sportier EcoSport ST-Line derivative in Europe, but it sadly it too won’t be offered in South Africa.
Also note that the South African-bound EcoSport (built in Romania and India) will have a full-size spare wheel attached to the tailgate. We prefer the look of the EcoSport without the spare wheel and are of the opinion that Ford SA should offer it as an option.
Interior design
Ford has introduced major improvements to the EcoSport’s interior, which draws inspiration from the all-new Fiesta (also due in SA in Q2 of 2018); the biggest revision is that the plastic-dominated, somewhat clumsy interior of the current EcoSport has been replaced.
To put it plainly: the interior overhaul is a breath of fresh air for the EcoSport. The soft-touch dashboard and newly designed fascia (with far fewer buttons than before) contribute to a cleaner, neater look overall and comfort has been enhanced with newly designed seats.
Ford's top-selling compact family car now sports a much more modern interior, replete with a raft of connectivity features.
Perhaps the most significant improvement to the EcoSport’s interior is the inclusion of SYNC 3, which is accessed via a new 8-inch colour touchscreen mounted on the dashboard in high-spec derivatives. A 6.5-inch touchscreen will also be offered on mid-grade derivatives while a simpler 4.2-inch screen will be offered on base models.
The system incorporates pinch and swipe functionality, much like a smartphone and is Bluetooth-enabled, while also being compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Prospective buyers will be happy to know that 2 USB ports are provided.
Music lovers are in for a treat as the EcoSport can be equipped with a sonorous 10-speaker B&O Play sound system, including a luggage bay-mounted subwoofer and a mid-range speaker integrated in the dashboard. The sound quality delivered by this new sound system is impressive and it certainly kept our heads bopping in Lisbon traffic.
While the side-opening rear door configuration is quite an anomaly these days, the Ford's loading capacity has improved a little.
Other notable features include a new 4.2-inch instrument cluster, cruise control with speed limiter, front and rear parking sensors with reverse camera, heated electrically-folding mirrors, Blind Spot Information System and Roll Stability Control. A total of 7 airbags are fitted as standard.
The luggage bay capacity has also improved with a height-adjustable floor that increases space to 334 litres. The floor is made from recycled material with honeycomb construction that can withstand weight up to 300 kg. With the 60/40 rear seats folded down, space increases to a useful 1 238 litres.
Exact specification for the South African market is yet to be finalised.
Engine choice
At this stage, only 2 engines are expected to power the EcoSport in South Africa. A 3-cylinder 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine with 92 kW/170 Nm of torque will be available to South African buyers. Average fuel consumption is claimed at 5.8 L/100 km.
Although the South African market won't offer the latest generation turbodiesel, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost remains a peach of an engine.
Ford is launching a new 92 kW/300 Nm 1.5-litre EcoBlue turbodiesel engine in Europe with all-wheel drive, but due to our poor local fuel quality, this engine is not coming to South Africa, which is a pity, because it’s a solid, refined engine that delivers good performance and reasonable fuel economy, as we discovered on our drive in Lisbon.
Instead, the current 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with peak outputs of 74 kW and 205 Nm will continue to do service in the local market (claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.6 L/100 km).
In terms of transmissions, a new, lightweight 6-speed manual transmission, the same as that earmarked for the new Fiesta, will replace the current 5-speed manual. A 6-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter is also on the way, which will replace the current 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Over and above improvements to the fit and finish of the EcoSport, its on-road demeanour remains comfortable and composed.
What’s it like to drive?
Our launch route started at Lisbon Airport behind the wheel of the SA-bound 92 kW /170 Nm, 1.0-litre Titanium automatic derivative. We found the engine offered just enough grunt for the average commute without feeling underpowered. It’s quite refined with minimal engine noise under normal driving conditions. However, if you mash the throttle pedal to extract more power, it becomes a bit more vocal (but it’s still mostly quite civilised).
The 6-speed automatic transmission seemed to be well matched with this engine and its shifts were relatively smooth and unobtrusive. Manual shift paddles behind the steering wheel allowed for further manipulation of the 3-pot’s performance. The steering is nicely weighted and communicative with good response to inputs.
The engine/transmission combination prefers a measured driving style to achieve the best driving experience; however, we were surprised to see an fuel consumption readout of around 9.9 L/100 km, which was somewhat disappointing considering that we weren’t thrashing the engine. Isn’t the point of a downsized engine to deliver better fuel economy?
We also sampled the new 6-speed manual transmission in the 1.5 EcoBlue diesel ST-Line (not coming to SA) and you will be happy to know that it’s an excellent gearbox with a solid, positive gear action.
Even though the Ford's user-friendly cabin comes well equipped, the lack of lateral support/bolstering on the front seats was a drawback.
As for the EcoSport’s ride quality, it’s comfortable and quite forgiving. It rides well overall and despite the poorer road surfaces experienced in the countryside on the outskirts of Lisbon, the EcoSport felt composed and managed to take bumps and imperfections in its stride.
Although handling isn’t a critical area for the EcoSport, the Ford still suffers from excessive body roll while cornering. This perception was exacerbated by the lack of side bolstering on the front seats, which left the driver and passenger sliding from side-to-side in the bends.
We also spent some time in the back of the EcoSport and found the aft accommodation sufficiently spacious and comfortable in terms of legroom, headroom and shoulder room.
We came away impressed with the new-look interior of the EcoSport. The cabin appeared to be solidly put together and not once was a squeak or rattle heard. We did, however, notice a fair amount of wind noise around the windows/mirrors at highway speed.
Strategic improvements to an already successful product bode well for the sales prospects of the updated Ford EcoSport.
Conclusion
The updated EcoSport seems a vastly improved product. Apart from the enhanced exterior styling, the changes to the interior improve the Ford’s purchasing proposition appreciably.
This updated EcoSport is bound to resonate well with South African buyers and if Ford SA can strike a good balance between spec and price, the revised EcoSport may even lure buyers away from other products in this segment. As long as the exchange rate remains stable and pricing competitive, Ford has another winner in this updated EcoSport.
Pricing and specification is yet to finalised but we will keep you informed as soon as more information becomes available.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/ford-ecosport-facelift-2018-international-launch-review/44426/
supersunbird
Honorary Master
I wonder, will ours still have wheel on the door? I guess if they haven't made a plan for wheel under the boot ,it will be the case.
The boot is rather small, so doubt they’ll make it smaller.
I quite like the tyre on the door look.
On second thought, looking at these pics, maybe they’ve gone with a space saver?
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supersunbird
Honorary Master
In euroland I think they don't have a sparewheel, they have those quick repair kits. And it was discussed in another thread and I even had pics up of underside, there is space of a normal wheel in its own hole (they need to make the pit for it in the body) without sacrificing boot space.