2018 Ford EcoSport (Facelift)

Fresh-faced Ford EcoSport hits SA! Check out pricing here

Earlier in June 2018, we brought you the low-down on the updated Ford EcoSport line-up. Now, Ford South Africa has officially launched the refreshed model, confirming pricing of the rejigged range.

As we pointed out in that earlier story, the updated EcoSport line-up has been trimmed from six derivatives to five, with the naturally aspirated 1,5-litre petrol engine falling away. In addition, the 1,5-litre TDCi mill is now available solely in base Ambiente form, with a manual gearbox.

Pricing starts at R264 500 for the aforementioned diesel and runs through to R339 900 for the 1,0 EcoBoost engine (mated to a six-speed automatic) in flagship Titanium trim.

Ford’s 1,0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine now powers four of the five derivatives, sending an unchanged 92 kW and 170 N.m to the front wheels. Trend and Titanium buyers have the choice between a six-speed manual gearbox and a new six-speed torque-converter automatic. Meanwhile, the 1,5-litre TDCi still makes 74 kW and 205 N.m, and is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

The entry-level Ambiente model runs on 16-inch steel wheels, while Trend derivatives upgrade to five-spoke 16-inch alloys and Titanium variants boast 17-inch items.

Inside, Ford claims an increase in soft-touch materials, along with an “entirely new” instrument cluster and centre console with far fewer buttons. There are also new seat designs and full leather on the Titanium derivatives.

Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system is fitted as standard on the Trend and Titanium models (Ambiente employs the first-generation Sync set-up), and incorporates a new floating colour touchscreen. A 6,5-inch screen is fitted on Trend models, while Titanium versions gain an eight-inch version as well as navigation and a new 4,2-inch digital instrument cluster.

The EcoSport also gains cruise control with an adjustable speed limiter (on Titanium models), while all models now boast rear parking sensors. All but the diesel model feature roll stability control (which adjusts torque and braking to help drivers maintain control), hill launch assist and tyre pressure monitoring.

The flagship Titanium variants furthermore gain automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers. Six airbags are fitted as standard on the Ambiente model, while Trend and Titanium derivatives add a driver’s knee airbag to the mix for a total of seven each.

A four-year/120 000 km warranty and four-year/60 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km) come standard.

Pricing:

Ford EcoSport 1,5 TDCi Ambiente: R264 500
Ford EcoSport 1,0 EcoBoost Trend: R287 500
Ford EcoSport 1,0 EcoBoost Trend 6AT: R300 700
Ford EcoSport 1,0 EcoBoost Titanium: R327 800
Ford EcoSport 1,0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT: R339 900

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/fresh-faced-ford-ecosport-hits-sa-check-pricing/

IMG_8726.JPG

IMG_8727.JPG

IMG_8728.JPG

IMG_8729.JPG
 
Looks very nice. I'm not a petrol head, so excuse my ignorance here, but they seem a bit under-powered? 92kw doesn't seem like much at all. I have 125kw in my car and i feel it needs another 100 or so.
 
Ford's facelifted EcoSport is here: SA prices and specs

Ford South Africa has announced details and prices of its upgraded EcoSport, which hits local showrooms this week.

The subcompact SUV will be sold in a range of five variants, with four of them powered by a 1-litre EcoBoost petrol turbo engine and the other by a 1.5-litre turbo diesel. The 1.5 normally aspirated petrol model has been dropped.

The 1.0T petrol models are available in the medium Trend and top-of-the-range Titanium trim grades, while the sole diesel model gets the entry-level Ambiente specification.

Ford has sold more than 45 000 second-generation EcoSport models in South Africa since it was launched in 2013, and the vehicle has been a major player in the compact adventure-vehicle segment against rivals like the Renault Captur, Mazda CX-3 and Peugeot 2008.

The 2018 model sees big improvements in style, technology, and interior updates.

The outside features a much bolder look with the designers having taken a leaf out of the new Kuga’s design. The front end now sports the same shaped grille with angular headlights (and integrated LED daytime running lights for the upper versions), giving it a beefier look. The back has a new bumper and tail light clusters.

A new level of interior refinement includes easier to use controls and classy soft-touch materials, along with an entirely new instrument cluster and centre console ergonomically designed for easy operation with fewer buttons.

Ford’s sophisticated Sync3 communications and entertainment system is fitted as standard on the Trend and Titanium models, and incorporates Bluetooth and Voice Control.

Sync3 is supported by a new floating colour touchscreen which can be operated with pinch and swipe gestures. A 16.5cm screen is fitted on the Trend models, while the Titanium features a 20.3cm version with navigation.

ENGINES

The petrol line up is powered by the three-cylinder 998cc Ecoboost turbo that has won the sub 1.0-litre category in the International Engine of the Year awards for the last six years. It produces a sprightly 92kW of power with a peak torque of 170Nm between 1400 and 4500rpm.

The petrol models are available in a choice of six-speed manual or the latest-generation six-speed torque converter automatic that recently made its debut on the all-new Ford Fiesta. Fuel consumption on the combined town/freeway cycle is claimed at 6.8 litres per 100km for the manual and 8.3 litres for the auto.

The diesel-powered Ambiente has a five-speed manual gearbox. The four-cylinder oil burner produces outputs of 74kW and 205Nm of torque between 1 750 and 3 250 rpm, and is claimed to sip just 5.3 litres per 100km.

All variants are front-wheel driven but have some respectable gravel road ability due to a generous 206mm ground clearance.

Under the skin there have also been tweaks to the EcoSport to reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels in the cabin, complemented by new suspension bushes and tyres that enhance refinement and comfort.

THE RANGE

At the most affordable end of the range, the EcoSport Ambiente is equipped with Ford’s previous-generation (non touchscreen) SYNC system with Bluetooth and Voice Control, as well as steering wheel audio controls.

Active driving safety has been stepped up markedly across the range with standard fitment of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Also standard are ABS brakes, a rear parking sensor, and six airbags.

Aircon, a trip computer, electric windows, central locking, 16” steel wheels and cloth seats complete the Ambiente package.

The Trend spec adds 16” alloy wheels, Roll Stability Control (RSC), Hill Launch Assist (HLA) that makes pulling off on steep inclines easier, along with tyre pressure monitoring. Also added is a driver’s knee airbag, leather gearknob and steering wheel, and LED daytime running lights.

The range-topping Titanium gains 17” alloys, cruise control with adjustable speed limiter, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless start, climate control, auto-dimming rear view mirror, leather seats, ambient interior lighting, and auto headlamps.The Titanium also features a new digital instrument cluster that makes key driving information easier to access.

The upgrades have seen some not-too-drastic price increases, with the pre-facelift range priced between R257 900 and R318 900, and the latest line up selling from R264 500 to R339 900.

PRICES

EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente manualR264 500
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend manualR287 500
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend autoR300 700
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium manualR327 800
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium autoR339 900

All models come standard with a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty and three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance. A four-year/60 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/late...ecosport-is-here-sa-prices-and-specs-15709943
 
SkippyRamirez said:
Looks very nice. I'm not a petrol head, so excuse my ignorance here, but they seem a bit under-powered? 92kw doesn't seem like much at all. I have 125kw in my car and i feel it needs another 100 or so.
Click to expand...

It’s all relative at the end of the day. What car do you have, what is it’s market positioning? How much does it weigh?
 
FiestaST said:
It’s all relative at the end of the day. What car do you have, what is it’s market positioning? How much does it weigh?
Click to expand...

Tis a Focus 2.0l. No idea about it's marketing position, but it's currently parked in a garage. It's a hatchback, so it seems light.
 
Driven Car Reviews of the 2018 Ford EcoSport Titanium AWD

[video=youtube;a11iSYA5g_g]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a11iSYA5g_g[/video]
 
Ford EcoSport (2018) Specs & Price

Ford has given its EcoSport compact family car a makeover and the latest model has now arrived in South Africa. Herewith specification and pricing details for the facelifted EcoSport as well as our driving impressions from the international launch which took place in Portugal late last year.

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 with over 45 000 units sold since its introduction.

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.

What’s changed?

Although the EcoSport's styling has always been inoffensive, the more grown-up and overtly-SUV styling cues are welcome.

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 the previous 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 have the choice of 7 exterior colours across 3 trim levels including Ambiente, Trend and Titanium. Wheel designs include 5-spoke, 16-inch alloys finished in gunmetal grey on the Trend, while 17-inch alloys are fitted to Titanium derivatives. The entry-level Ambiente derivative wears 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers. Note that the EcoSport also has a full-size spare wheel attached to the tailgate.

Local versions of the EcoSport feature the characteristic spare-wheel-on-the-tailgate look.

Interior design

Ford has introduced major improvements to the EcoSport’s interior, which draws inspiration from the all-new Fiesta which was also recently launched in South Africa. The biggest revision is that the plastic-dominated, somewhat clumsy interior of the outgoing 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 which are wrapped in leather if you opt for the Titanium derivatives.

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 SYNC3 on Trend and Titanium (with navigation) derivatives, which is accessed via a new 8-inch colour touchscreen mounted on the dashboard (Titanium). A 6.5-inch touchscreen is offered on mid-grade Trend derivatives while a simpler 4.2-inch screen with first-generation SYNC will be offered on base models

The SYNC3 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.

Features such as cruise control and adjustable speed limiter are offered on Titanium derivatives and all EcoSport models now feature rear parking sensors.

A new 8-inch touchscreen is a highlight and features SYNC3 with navigation, Bluetooth, voice control and Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto functionality.

Other notable features include a new 4.2-inch instrument cluster (Titanium) and electrically-folding mirrors while active safety features have been beefed up with Electronic Stability Control with traction control, Roll Stability Control, Hill Launch Assist and tyre pressure monitoring. A total of 7 airbags are fitted as standard on Trend and Titanium derivatives while the Ambiente gets 6 airbags, sans a driver's knee airbag.

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.

Engine choice

Ford's acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine forms the backbone of the EcoSport range. A 1.5-litre turbodiesel is also in the mix.

A total of 2 engines power the EcoSport in South Africa. A 3-cylinder 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine with 92 kW/170 Nm of torque is available with a fuel consumption claimed at 5.8 L/100 km. In Trend and Titanium trim, buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

There's also a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with peak outputs of 74 kW and 205 Nm on offer with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.6 L/100 km. This engine is offered in Ambiente trim and is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

What’s it like to drive?

Buyers should be pleased with the performance offered by the EcoSport.

We drove the facelifted EcoSport in Portugal late last year and 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 a 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.

The EcoSport delivers a comfortable ride but we found body roll to be pronounced while cornering.

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.

Conclusion

The updated EcoSport seems to be a vastly improved product. Apart from the enhanced exterior styling, the changes to the interior improve Ford’s purchasing proposition appreciably.

This updated EcoSport is bound to resonate well with South African buyers and it may even lure buyers away from other products in this segment. Ford has another winner in this updated EcoSport, see pricing below...

Ford EcoSport - Price in SA

EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente 5MT - R264 500

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6MT - R287 500

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6AT - R300 700

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6MT - R327 800

EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT - R339 900

All models come standard with a 4-year/120 000km warranty, 4-year/60 000km service plan, 3-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/ford-ecosport-2018-specs--price/44426/
 
Driven in SA: Ford's next-gen EcoSport

A popular sight on South African roads, Ford has launched the latest version of its small SUV, the EcoSport on local shores.

Sporting a fresh design and new tricks and gadgets, the EcoSport aims to deliver in the same needs and supplies of modern young families of the outgoing model, while at the same time adding to the package that thousands of South Africans have come to love.

Since coming to market in 2013, Ford has managed to sell thousands of this popular SUV and has the vehicle been a constant contender in our monthly ranking of the ten top-selling passenger cars.

The EcoSport has found that gap in the market where buyers aren’t too concerned with big, brawny SUVs, but instead want something that caters to their everyday needs without imposing itself too much on their lifestyle.

And this is what Ford has managed to get just right with the EcoSport and they’re hoping that the newer, fresher version will continue that trend.

Bold, new face

Fiesta, Figo... it's been a big year for Ford South Africa with two major launches locally. In July, Ford launches its next-generation EcoSport compact SUV.

The new EcoSport continues the same design ethos that made the outgoing model a local favourite but the overall look and feel of the car have been altered to accommodate the next phase of the SUVs run in South Africa.

At the rear, the familiar spare-wheel mounted on the rear-door is retained though for 2018 it is now covered in a secure plastic housing. The previous model had a cloth cover much to the chagrin of some owners.

Even with the spare wheel stuck to the back of the vehicle, vision through the rear-view mirror remains unobstructed. Depending on the level of trim, a set of high-profile tyres with neat rim designs add to the visual effect of the car. Both the head- and taillights have new designs with daytime LEDs. The front and rear bumpers are also new, with the addition of rear-parking sensors incorporated into the back.

The front is perhaps the mini SUVs biggest attraction sporting a new grille and bonnet design.

Engine and gearbox

At the launch, the EcoSport was only available with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit though buyers can also choose from a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The diesel model, in Ambiente trim, is the more affordable option in the range and offers power outputs of 74kW and 205Nm. Ford says, however, that this engine is only available with a five-speed manual gearbox.

The engine available to test for local media was mated to Ford’s new six-speed automatic. Ford says that this gearbox is not its PowerShift unit, but instead, a new torque-converter ‘box also used in its upcoming Ranger Raptor. But instead of the Raptor’s ten gears, the EcoSport only has six.

The three-cylinder engine, a six-time Engine of the Year winner, delivers 92kW and 170Nm of torque. The responsiveness of the engine can also be adjusted by flicking the gearbox into Sport mode and then changing gears via the steering wheel mounted paddles.

Speaking of, these paddles are standard on all automatic models but are only usable when the gearbox is in Sport.

On the road

The launch route included a wide variety of road surfaces, covering both national roads and long stretches of gravel. The SUV had its work cut out to handle whatever the roads through Kwazulu-Natal Midlands had in store for it.

Manoeuvring out of King Shaka International airport to the Midlands, the route took us through arduous gravel sections riddled with bumps and undulations as well as suspension-ruining dongas.

Ford’s EcoSport scaled over the rough terrain thanks to its 206mm ground clearance. Taking on inclines made for spectacular dust shows as the SUV scrambled for grip on the loose surfaces left us wondering whether the EcoSport would make the ascent. Granted, most of the scaling commenced from a complete stop as we were travelling in convoy and momentum would surely have prevented any wheel spin.

Despite the torrid road conditions, the EcoSport felt composed, unshaken and without the usual rattle of loose components following an off-road stint. Steering remained firm and did not hinder confidence on the gravel.

On the tar, the car impressed with its smooth ride quality and low road-noise levels. Travelling at national speeds, fuel consumption dipped to below the 6.0-litres/100km mark. The engine felt very responsive and the transmission always seemed to hit the right gear. Seating position provides a commanding view of the road though seats have to be adjusted manually.

Trim and features

In addition to the diesel model’s Ambiente specification, the 1.0-litre EcoSport models are only available in Trend and Titanium trims. The Ambiente model, for instance, has a touchscreen atop the dashboard from which occupants can operate media. The screen, however, is only 4.2" large though features Ford’s Sync1 multi-media system. The Trend (6.5" touchscreen) and Titanium (8" touchscreen) all feature Sync3. All three media systems have Bluetooth, voice control, controls on the steering wheel and two USB ports.

The Ambiente and Trend have 16" wheels, while the Titanium features 17" units. The latter two trims have seven airbags but the Ambiente has to make due with six.

Ford also used new materials for the seats on all the models, as well as implementing a new design for the climate control and information clusters ahead of the driver. The Titanium models have a keyless start button. The boot can store 333-litres of luggage and the boot floor can sustain a weight of up to 300kg.

The EcoSport has established itself as the second best-selling Ford in South Africa after the Ranger and amassed a segment share of 38%. Priced from R264 500 and R339 900, the new model makes a very strong case for itself and Ford is hoping to build on the success of the outgoing model.

https://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/driven-in-sa-fords-next-gen-ecosport-20180731

IMG_8998.JPG

IMG_8999.JPG

IMG_9001.JPG

IMG_9002.JPG
 
DRIVEN: Ford EcoSport 1,0T Trend AT

When the Ford EcoSport bounded onto the local scene way back in 2013, the mini-crossover landscape was a vastly less populated one. The Blue Oval brand’s diminutive Fiesta-based SUV found itself with very few direct rivals (the Renault Duster launched in South Africa at around the same time, but appealed to a slightly different audience), and slotted in below traditionally larger, more expensive offerings of the time.

The EcoSport quickly found favour among South African motorists whose appetites for both a lofty ride height and a raised driving position – at light hatchback prices, no less – were rapidly growing. In fact, this city-biased model soon became the Dearborn-based automaker’s second most popular local offering (behind the Ranger, of course).

Fast-forward around five years and the EcoSport finds itself having to contend with considerably more (and significantly stiffer) competition. Indeed, after seemingly reserving itself a place on our monthly list of SA’s 10 best-selling passenger vehicles, the EcoSport has fallen off the pace somewhat in 2018, making the cut only twice in the first six months of the year.

Examine the sales figures a little more closely and you’ll find that rivals such as the Hyundai Creta are threatening the EcoSport’s long-held title as the country’s best-selling light crossover (in fact, the Creta outsold Ford’s offering by 261 units in first half of 2018). Sure, a fair part of that slowdown could be attributed to the Ford going into run-out stock ahead of this very facelift, but there’s no denying the EcoSport was showing its age.

Rejigged range

So, in need of a refresh the EcoSport most certainly was. And that’s exactly what it’s been given. Still, while this long-awaited facelift rings in meaningful styling changes up front, a couple of new transmissions and significant refinements to the previously button-festooned facia, it’s the reshuffled make-up of the local line-up that is perhaps most interesting.

Trimmed from six derivatives to five, the renewed range no longer features the naturally aspirated 1,5-litre petrol engine that previously powered both the base model and the flagship. Instead, Ford’s 1,0-litre EcoBoost mill now provides urge to four variants (in mid-range Trend or top-spec Titanium specification), with the old 74 kW/205 N.m 1,5-litre TDCi mill (South Africa won’t get the new 1,5-litre EcoBlue diesel unit offered in some overseas markets) now available solely in entry-level Ambiente form, fitted with a manual gearbox.

Interestingly, while this single diesel derivative is still sourced from India, South Africa’s 1,0-litre EcoBoost derivatives now come from the brand’s Craiova plant in Romania. And it was the turbocharged three-cylinder that was on hand to drive at the local launch.

Transmission trade

As before, this characterful yet refined little three-pot delivers 92 kW and 170 N.m to the front wheels. But it’s now available with either a new six-speed manual gearbox or an equally box-fresh conventional torque-converter automatic with the same number of cogs (in the pre-facelift range, the EcoBoost mill was mated exclusively to a five-speed manual). Offering this self-shifter – and ditching the dual-clutch from the range – in conjunction with the 1,0-litre will likely prove a deft move as South Africans living or working in our traffic-infested cities continue to shift away from manual transmissions.

While paddle shifters ship standard, you rarely need them as the automatic gearbox does a fair job of keeping the turbo-triple – which offers its peak twisting force from as low as 1 400 r/min right through to 4 500 r/min – on the boil. While the 1,0-litre powerplant feels up to the job in the EcoSport, there’s no denying that it feels decidedly perkier in the (admittedly lighter) Fiesta.

In addition, the new auto transmission carries a slight fuel consumption penalty, with Ford claiming a combined figure of 6,3 L/100 km compared with the 5,4 offered by the manual. For the record, our trip computer indicated a figure of around 10 L/100 km after a fairly spirited drive through the KZN Midlands, but one of less than six after a more leisurely highway cruise back into Durban the following day. It all depends on how you drive, then.

Gravel gambol

Little has changed under the skin, which means the EcoSport still serves up a relatively pliant ride (more so in the case of the Trend derivatives with their 16-inch alloys than the Titanium variants, which run on slightly lower-profile 17s) courtesy of its (previous-generation) Fiesta-based underpinnings. Ford included plenty of gravel roads in the launch route and the little SUV performed admirably, chiefly thanks to its generous 206 mm of ground clearance.

While the steering is accurate enough, the EcoSport feels somewhat ponderous through sweeping, high-speed bends and, when driven with gusto, generally lacks the sparkle that defines its Fiesta sibling. Still, that’ll matter little to the majority of prospective buyers, who will place more value on the EcoSport’s ease-of-use at city speeds, its improved safety levels (six airbags for the Ambiente and seven for the Trend and Titanium, along with rear parking sensors and electronic stability control across the range) and its noticeably more modern cabin.

Step inside…

The latter is perhaps the most striking element of this update, seeing the EcoSport borrow much of the new Fiesta’s uncluttered facia. The result is a vast reduction in the number of physical buttons, an easily legible new instrument cluster and a 6,5-inch touchscreen display (in the case of this Trend model; the flagship Titanium boasts an eight-inch item with integrated navigation) running the brand’s clever Sync 3 software.

That said, some scratchy plastics remain, the vast majority of which are thankfully tucked away in infrequently handled areas. Space inside is more plentiful than the EcoSport’s exterior dimensions might suggest, while the luggage compartment, which is again accessed via a side-hinged door (SA-spec models furthermore retain their tailgate-mounted spare wheel) that proves cumbersome in tight spaces, gains a nifty adjustable floor.

While the rejigged range makes it tough to compare outgoing prices with new ones, the line-up’s bookends haven’t shifted implausibly far north (particularly when one considers that most derivatives are now shipped from Europe). In addition, Ford has been fairly liberal with its standard specification, and this mid-spec Trend variant boasts items such as LED daytime running lights, front fog-lamps, roof rails, tyre-pressure monitoring, manual air-conditioning, a leather steering wheel (and gear-lever), the touchscreen mentioned above and electric windows all round.

Titanium models add the likes of cruise control, keyless start, a fancier air-con system, leather upholstery, a centre arm-rest/bin, the larger touchscreen, puddle lamps, automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers, but the Trend trim level seems positioned as the pick of the range and will in all likelihood do the heavy lifting in terms of local sales volumes.

New lease on life?

So, do these changes run deep enough to breathe new life into Ford’s baby crossover? Well, first impressions suggest so, with prospective buyers likely to be drawn in by the sorts of things they’ll immediately notice (a more modern look to both the EcoSport’s visage and its cabin) and further tempted by less obvious improvements, such as added safety kit and the increased availability of (new) automatic transmissions.

But it’ll be interesting to see how Ford’s decision to extensively rearrange the line-up will affect the EcoSport’s popularity with local buyers, who enjoy more choice in this segment than ever before. We’ll certainly be keeping a close eye on the sales charts…

Model:Ford EcoSport 1,0T Trend AT
Price:R300 700
Engine:1,0-litre, in-line three, turbocharged petrol
Power:92 kW @ 6 000 r/min
Torque:170 N.m @ 1 400 to 4 500 r/min
Fuel Consumption:6,3 L/100 km
CO2:143 g/km
Transmission:Six-speed automatic
Maintenance Plan:Four-year/60 000 km service plan (with 15 000 km intervals).
Notes:*claimed figures

http://www.carmag.co.za/car-reviews/driven-ford-ecosport-10t-trend-at/
 
SA launch drive: Ford's freshened up EcoSport

Ford’s EcoSport has pretty much owned the baby SUV segment since the day it first landed in 2013. Five years later and it’s still selling up a storm, despite having a whole lot more competition to worry about.

But it could certainly use a refresh, which brings us to the facelifted SUV that Ford SA introduced in late July. We recently got the chance to put the new EcoSport through its paces on a variety of roads in the KZN Midlands.

First thing you’ll notice about the 2018 model is that butch new front end, featuring a trapezoidal grille that’s positioned further up and directly between the redesigned headlights. This and a new bonnet with a central bulge make it look like a baby Ranger of sorts and no, you may not fit a ‘Raptor’ grille from the spares shop up the road.

There’s not much to tell the new model apart from the side and back, except for a subtly revised rear bumper and tail lights as well as new 16-inch dark grey alloys on the Trend.

Inside there’s a totally new dashboard that places the entertainment system above the central air vents and within very easy reach for the driver.

The new interior design not only brings things things up to date technologically, but it also looks much smarter and the materials and textures are all of a high quality.

Trend and Titanium models get Ford’s latest Sync3 system, operated through touch-screens measuring 16.5 and 20.3cm respectively. Sync3 features advanced voice control and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The touchscreen interface is easy to operate and the graphics look crisp and modern. There is no reverse camera but both models do get park assist as part of the deal and the Titanium gets navigation as standard.

The base Ambiente gets the first-generation Sync operating system, linked to a 10.6cm non-touch screen, and featuring voice control and Bluetooth connectivity.

Other standard features include aircon, electric windows, steering-mounted audio controls, remote central locking, trip computer, six airbags, ABS brakes and stability control.

In addition to the aforementioned Sync3, Trend models gain a leather steering wheel, height-adjustable driver's seat, tyre pressure monitoring, Roll Stability Control, a hard cover for the spare wheel, chrome grille trim, LED daytime running lights and 16-inch alloys. The Titanium grade adds cruise control, automatic climate control, LED ambient lighting, auto headlights, lower body cladding and 17-inch alloys, among other additions.

Nothing much changes on the engineering front, apart from measures to further reduce noise, vibration and harshness and there are new suspension bushes. Even on harsher roads, of which we experienced many in the Valley of 1000 Hills, the EcoSport remains impressively quiet. The suspension did a good job of soaking up the ruts and ripples on the dirt stretches, although I feel the suspension could have been made a little softer given that this vehicle is largely aimed at family buyers.

Road holding is quite neat however, and body roll is not excessive, particularly given the EcoSport’s top-heavy stance, and the steering feels relatively well weighted and communicative.

Engines carry over although the base 1.5-litre normally aspirated petrol falls away - something that Ford has compensated for by offering the 1.5-litre turbodiesel in base Ambiente form. The 74kW/205Nm engine is however only available in this base guise and only with a manual gearbox, something Ford SA attributes to supply constraints from the factory in India.

The 1-litre turbpetrol models are now sourced from Europe however, and buyers have a choice between a six-speed manual and a new torque converter six-speed automatic gearbox.

It was the latter model that we drove on the KZN launch, and it is a very refined and smooth revving engine, with none of the usual three-cylinder imbalance. It’s got enough power to suit most needs and overtake safely but there were a few occasions when we wished for a bit more power.

Economy is a mixed bag - in our lower-speed run up to the Midlands - with plenty of climbing as well as frequent stops and pull-offs, fuel consumption crept beyond the nine litres per 100km mark, but on the highway back down to Durban, at a steady speed, it consumed less than six litres per 100.

Priced between R264 500 and R339 900, the EcoSport offers relatively good value in relation to its rivals, and given its overall sophistication it is likely to continue dominating the segment. The SUV is sold with a four-year/120 000km warranty and a four-year/60 000km service plan.

FORD ECOSPORT PRICES

EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente manual 74kW/205Nm R264 500
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend manual 92kW/170Nm R287 500
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend auto 92kW/170Nm R300 700
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium manual 92kW/170Nm R327 800
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium auto 92kW/170Nm R339 900

ALTERNATIVES

Hyundai Creta 1.6 Executive 90kW/150Nm R329 900
Hyundai Creta 1.6 Executive auto 90kW/150Nm R249 900
Mazda CX-3 2.0 Dynamic 115kW/104Nm R317 200
Mazda CX-3 2.0 Dynamic auto 115kW/104Nm R329 200
Nissan Juke 1.2T Acenta+ 85kW/190Nm R324 300
Opel Crossland X 1.2 Turbo Enjoy 81kW/205Nm R318 895
Peugeot 2008 1.6 HDI Active 68kW/230Nm R284 900
Peugeot 2008 1.2T Active 81kW/205Nm R299 900
Peugeot 2008 1.2T Allure auto 81kW/205Nm R334 900
Renault Captur 1.2T Dynamique 88kW/190Nm R307 900
Renault Captur 1.2T Dynamique auto 88kW/190Nm R322 900
Suzuki Vitara 1.6 GL+ 86kW/151Nm R319 900
Suzuki Vitara 1.6 GL+ auto 86kW/151Nm R332 900
Toyota Rush 1.5 S 77kW/136Nm R299 900
Toyota Rush 1.5 S auto 77kW/136Nm R313 500

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/sa-launch-drive-fords-freshened-up-ecosport-16337675
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top
Sign up to the MyBroadband newsletter
X