Ford EcoSport -2012 upcoming

Ford EcoSport

Recently, Ford India’s under-construction EcoSport page made the headlines, revealing first images of the upcoming compact sports utility vehicle (SUV). The move was perceived as a goof-up, as the American car maker in India pulled out the content of the model from the website. Codenamed as B512, the mini-SUV is expected to be showcased at the forthcoming Auto Expo 2012 to be held in New Delhi and at the Beijing Motorshow in April 2012. The international auto event in India will serve as a platform for its launch in one of the most lucrative auto markets across the globe.

Ford EcoSport, expected to hit Indian roads in 2012, has been designed and engineered on Ford Fiesta platform. Inaugural edition of the compact sports utility vehicle was rolled out in 2004, designed by the Ford-US Truck Vehicle Center (program code BV226) and built in Brazil by Ford. One of Ford's best-seller models in Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela and Mexico, it has gathered several prestigious awards and praises since the rollout. Pitted against Fiat Palio Weekend Adventure and Volkswagen CrossFox in these markets, the model has been doing well over the years.

Ford in India is aiming for gaining major market share after commendable success of Ford Figo. The mini-SUV model for India will be having identical dynamics as the model in Brazil. A clever combination of a SUV and compact hatchback, the upcoming Ford EcoSport is expected to be priced within the bracket of Rs. 8 lacs to Rs. 12 lacs. Elevated driving position, rugged appearance and expanded cargo space are the defining characteristics of this model. Moreover, class-leading fuel economy is expected from the model to please Indian audience.

Industry sources have confirmed launch of Renault Duster in the near future, which will be a close competitor of the model. Furthermore, market leader Maruti Suzuki India Limited is also geared up to bring in compact sports utility vehicle early next year. The diesel option of 1.5-litre capacity is another possibility in addition to the petrol version of the compact SUV. The diesel powered Ford EcoSport will be configured with a DuraTorq engine that is borrowed from the latest edition of Fiesta, although in a different calibration.



Technical Specifications and other specifics of Ford EcoSport

The forthcoming Ford EcoSport will see the entry of the advanced Ecoboost engine, incorporated with direct-injection turbocharging technology. 1.6-litre petrol engine has excellent power churning capacity, besides high fuel economy. In comparison to others, this promising engine helps in increasing fuel economy by 20 per cent, lowering carbon dioxide emissions by 15 per cent and improving overall on-road performance.

The integration of direct-injection technology with turbocharging capability leads to improved torque and performance. In comparison to conventional port injection, direct injection allows cooler and denser charge, which refines fuel efficiency and performance. In other words, the 4-cylinder Ecoboost engine is as capable as 6-cylinder engine.

Another industry prediction is that the diesel version of the model is expected to be released later, depending upon the model's market reception. The 1.5 litre DV5 diesel engine is tried and tested in the new Ford Fiesta saloon. Comparatively, the engine is expected to make it more fuel-efficient, although it becomes heavier and less dynamic.



Performance of Ford EcoSport

The upcoming car in the Ford's portfolio in India, Ford EcoSport is perceived as a performance oriented car. It is assembled with an advanced engine and new technologies. After phenomenal success in Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela and Mexico, Ford India is anticipating a warm response from the target audience. The compact crossover has been ingeniously built on the award winning worldwide compact car platform (B2E), which has roll out several high performance cars. Moreover, there are various arrangements within the car for convenient handling, such as raised driving position, tight overhangs and expanded boot volume.



Exteriors, Interiors and Safety features of Ford EcoSport

In context of exteriors, Ford EcoSport has a fresh and distinct appeal in comparison to other models of the same category. The upright posture, excellent ground clearance, high bonnet placement and sophisticated cladding are the defining exterior characteristics. Fresh and well-proportioned appearance of the car has raised hopes of car enthusiasts.

On the move, the inversed V shaped nose along with the chin grabs attention of passers-by. The rear end of the mini crossover impresses with the no-pillar windscreen and elegantly designed tail lamps. Other notable elements of the kinetic exterior design are the cleaner lines throughout the body, large bumper, air intakes, front grille and gracious alloy wheels.

On the other hand, interiors of the Ford EcoSport model rolling out in foreign markets are designed taking into account the preferences of modern-day user. Besides the appealing design theme, seating arrangement of the car is extremely comfortable and relaxing. In addition to this, there is ample space at the front row, rear row and boot area. Some of the prominent interior features are leather wrapped steering wheel, carpeted floor, modern music console and powerful air-conditioning system.

In order to ascertain active and passive safety, there are several arrangements in the upcoming Ford EcoSport. Some of the highlighting safety features of the car will be burglar alarm system, safety airbags, inertial back seat belts, parking sensors, fog lamps, traction control, electronic brake distribution (EBD) and anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Fact Sheet of Ford EcoSport
Make Ford
Model EcoSport
Fuel Types Petrol
Price Range Rs. 8 lacs to Rs. 12 lacs (speculation)
Key Specifications

Make
Ford India Private Limited
Model
Ford EcoSport
Fuel Types
Petrol
Price Range
Rs. 8 lacs to Rs. 12 lacs (speculation)
Key specifications
1.6-litre Ecoboost engine
Fuel type: Petrol
Direct-injection turbocharging technology