Ford EcoSport facelift to be made in Romania from late 2017 [Update]

08/10/2016 - 13:16 | ,   | Sagar Parikh

Facelifted model will debut at the 2016 Sao Paulo Auto Show in November.

Ford announced earlier this year that it is investing up to €200 million to manufacture the Ford EcoSport at its Craiova Assembly Plant, relocating the production of the Euro-spec version from India to Romania.

2017 Ford EcoSport (facelift) Rendering
A speculative rendering from IAB's automotive illustrator Shoeb Kalania previews the 2017 Ford EcoSport (facelift).

In August, the Romanian government proposed Ford an extension of its deadline of producing 8,10,000 cars and 1.5 million engines by December 31, 2017 under the agreement, to December 31, 2025, provided it invests €100 million in production of a new model in Craiova and €30 million in engine production by the end of 2016.

Now, local publications are reporting that the new deadline has been approved, and thus, the new Ford EcoSport (facelift) will enter production in the country as planned, in Fall 2017.

Ford Ecosport Ecoboost engine
The facelifted Ford EcoSport will be available with a new 1.5-litre 'Dragon' three-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine pictured.

Also Read: Ford EcoSport facelift is air cargo in Europe

The facelifted Ford EcoSport is expected to feature a fresh front fascia with new headlamps, grille, bumper and fog lamps; and an updated rear fascia with tweaked tail lights and restyled bumper. A redesigned dashboard, steering wheel and instrument panel, and incorporation of the Ford SYNC2 touchscreen infotainment system with a colour display should round up the major interior changes.

Lastly, the 1.5-litre 'Dragon' three-cylinder naturally aspirated engine is reportedly premiering with the facelift.

[Source 3: Romania-Insider.com]

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