New Ford EcoSport expected to launch around Diwali.
As Ford India continues testing the 2017 Ford EcoSport, a test car has again shown up on the roads. IAB reader Nithi recently spotted a 2017 Ford EcoSport with accessories and SYNC 3 infotainment system testing near Chennai.
The 2017 Ford EcoSport will feature a revised design and a host of interior changes to give it a premium look. Up front, the facelifted Ford EcoSport gets a hexagonal grille with the border and two horizontal slats in silver finish, bigger headlamps with projectors, triangular fog lamps and remodelled bumper. On the sides, the mid-cycle refresh brings new design alloy wheels, while at the rear, the bumper is redetailed and the new camouflaged spare wheel cover appears similar to the one on the 2017 EcoSport in China.
The 2017 Ford EcoSport has substantial changes inside starting with the free-standing display at the centre of the dashboard, which is presumably for the SYNC 3 infotainment system. This system would offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation, voice recognition and apps among other features, already available in Maruti, Hyundai and Mahindra vehicles. Lower grades of the EcoSport could settle for a 2-DIN audio system with a small display.
A new three-spoke steering wheel and centre console with horizontal central HVAC vents, dashboard grab bar and a more intuitive instrument panel complete the transformation. New trim and higher grade upholstery are expected to give the cabin a premium feel and look.
Also Read: 2018 Ford Endeavour/2018 Ford Everest (facelift) spied testing for the first time
While the refreshed EcoSport has been announced with the all-new 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine from the 'Falcon' family in Brazil, it is unclear if this motor will find a place in the Indian version. The current model is available in 112 PS 1.5-litre Ti-VCT petrol (5-MT), 112 PS 1.5-litre Ti-VCT petrol (6-DCT), 125 PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol (5MT) and 100 PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel (5MT) configurations. The fuel economy ratings of these models, 15.85 km/l, 15.60 km/l, 18.88 km/l and 22.27 km/l respectively, should remain largely unchanged, if Ford retains them.
As the EcoSport brings better quality and upgraded equipment, expect a minor price hike. The current model starts at INR 7.18 lakh, stretching to INR 10.76 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
