One of the first compact SUVs in India, that started the trend of this segment along with Renault Duster, is the Ford EcoSport. Also, a torch-bearer in small turbo petrol engines, it made a mark in the Indian automobile industry with its very successful and widely acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. However, Ford had to discontinue it after the implementation of BS6 emission norms in India. Currently, the EcoSport is available only with a naturally aspirated petrol and a diesel unit. With the new update, here are the changes that are expected from the new EcoSport.
Also read: Mahindra-Ford Joint Venture called off!
2021 Ford EcoSport – Exterior
There are not too many spy shots running around for the Ford EcoSport. But we would expect a fair few bit of cosmetic changes to the existing model. Now, it has always been a strongly built good looking SUV. There might well be changes to the front end including the Headlamps and DRLs, bumpers and fog-lamp housing. The overall silhouette is likely to remain the same with a tall and wide stance. The spare tyre will most likely continue to be hanging on the rear door.
2021 Ford EcoSport – Interior
The interior of the EcoSport is already feature-packed in the existing models. There is a free-standing Digital Touchscreen in the centre. Ford has equipped the current-gen model with Cruise COntrol, Voice Commands, Multicolour Footwell Ambient Lighting, Auto-Dimming Mirror, Digital Instrument Cluster, and plenty of safety tech. Safety features include ABS, EBD, 6 Airbags, Hill Launch Assist and Electronic Stability Control and Rear-view Camera with sensors. It will be continued in the next update as well with the addition of a few new tech and convenience features.
Also read: Ranault to launch its new compact SUV, the Kiger – Check out expected prices, features and more!
2021 Ford EcoSport – Engine and Transmission
It is under the hood, that the EcoSport will receive a major update. The new EcoSport will come with a Mahindra-sourced 1.2-litre mStallion Turbo petrol engine, making 130hp and 230Nm. This engine will replace the iconic 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, which became hugely popular for its efficiency and economy. Apart from the powerful turbo, the naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol will continue in its current state of tune, making 100PS and 150Nm, mated to either a manual or an automatic gearbox. The 1.5-litre diesel engine is also likely to be continued, producing 120PS and 215Nm with a manual transmission.
Also read: Citroen – The latest player in the Indian game – C3 Aircross and C21 Compact SUV!
2021 Ford EcoSport – Prices and Competition
When launched in mid-2021, the expected prices should be around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 13 lakh, ex-showroom. This will compete directly against the likes of Mahindra XUV300, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza and Nissan Magnite. This is considered to be the most competitive segment in the Indian automobile market at the moment.
The future of Ford in India is not in doubt even though the Joint Venture between Mahindra and Ford has been called off. The projects that the two companies have been working on will continue as planned. As a result, EcoSport will receive a Mahindra-sourced mStallion engine. A new SUV is also in the making, which will be co-developed by Ford and Mahindra.
