Expected to launch in Q3 2017.
The 2017 Ford EcoSport (facelift) has been spotted for the first time up close in the outskirts of Chennai by a Motorworld India reader. It is expected to arrive in showrooms across India in Q3 2017.
Both test mules are disguised with camo wrap, but the changes we first saw at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show are visible in both EcoSports. It features a redesigned trapezoidal radiator grille flanked by bigger headlamps, sharp-edged triangular fog lamps, rugged revised bumpers and updated taillamp graphics. Like the models in China and Brazil, the Indian-spec EcoSport retains the tailgate-mounted spare wheel with a body-painted wheel cover.
In case you're curious, one of the test mules has a PEMS (Portable Emissions Measuring System) box mounted on the tailgate.
The interior will be completely new featuring a new three-spoke steering wheel, new instrument panel, redesigned centre console, horizontal central HVAC vents, and large MID flanked by the new instrument dials. We're unsure if the EcoSport will get Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system or retain the current version's 8.0-inch system.
The engine lineup is likely to keep the 1.5L Ti-VCT petrol engine, 1.5-litre TDCi engine and the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. All variants are likely to be equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard, while the 6-speed DCT will continue to be exclusive to the 1.5L Ti-VCT. Expect mileage to be more or less similar to the current EcoSport's 15.85 km/L (1.5 petrol), 18.88 km/L (1.0L EcoBoost), 22.27 km/L (1.5 Diesel).
Also Read: Ford Figo Sports and Aspire Sports launched in India at INR 6.32 Lakhs
To compete with the Maruti Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon and the Mahindra TUV300, Ford is likely to price the EcoSport nearly similar to the current version, which ranges between INR 7.18 Lakhs - INR 10.76 Lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi).
With the launch of the facelift, Ford India will halt exports to Europe, and the capacity will be utilised to serve the American demand from early 2018.
[Source - MotorworldIndia]
