Ford EcoSport: A runaway success story from India’s most competitive compact SUV market, the Ford EcoSport enjoyed a cult following that adored its tough build, agile handling and beefy look.
In the absence of Ford in the Indian manufacturing, the EcoSport quietly made an exit—creating a void in the sub-4-meter SUV segment.
But with talk of a potential return via imports or EV conversion now swirling, the EcoSport name is making the rounds once more.
Whether that’s a return of the classic petrol-powered model or an electrified version for the future, let’s take a look back at what made the EcoSport so different, and why a return of the small SUV would have the potential to rock the market at a time when it’s fully saturated with options.
Design: Still Ho-Hum, Still Sexy
The EcoSport still looks fresh years after it was first launched. With its high stance, wide open wheel arches and a spare wheel dangling off the rear tailgate, its character stood out from any other subcompact SUV.
A strong glance front on it screamed SUV even though it a crossover, with its aggressive grille, sharp headlights with DRLs and muscle-bound shoulder lines.
During the product life cycle there are two directions Ford may chose to take – one, give it a makeover and two, retain it in its current form and the end result would be more or less the same – after all, it already has enough DNA in one to make it look cool as a handsome urban warhead that Indian buyers still drool over, right?
Fit and Finish: Pure Interior: Strong and Sturdy
Hop in the EcoSport, though, and the cabin is an immediate reminder what build quality feels like.
The dash design was clear and practical, with one with some soft-touch materials in higher trim levels, and a good quality SYNC 3 touchscreen media system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
It wasn’t the roomiest in its class — particularly in rear legroom — but it had ergonomic design, comfortable front seats and loads of storage.
A useful 352 litres in the boot was fine for inner-city families, and top-end trims saw a sunroof, push-button start, and automatic climate control.
Performance: Fun Yet Frugal
The EcoSport was offered with two powerplants: a 1.5L petrol and 1.5L diesel engine, which were married to either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (for petrol trims).
Amounting to about 121 bhp, this was a peppy city-drive and stable cruiser on the highway.
Where the EcoSport shone, however, was in driving dynamics––a nicely taut suspension, razor sharp steering, and balanced high-speed composure made it a joy to drive.
Even in automatic mode, the car didn’t feel slow. It was one of the most rewarding choices for budget-driving enthusiasts.
If there is a Ford EV version planned, it will be likely refreshed with immediate torque range, higher range goals (300–400 km), and regenerative braking — all this sitting on EcoSport’s toughened-root.
Features & Safety: Ahead of It’s Time
The EcoSport was always an over-achiever in the equipment stakes. Available depending on the specific market:
6 airbags
ABS with EBD
Rear parking camera
ESP with hill launch assist (AT trims only)
Auto headlamps and wipers
Cruise control
Built-in infotainment with voice operation
Safety was also a priority for Ford even then, which is one of the main reasons families felt safe buying from the company.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Chunky design and grown up handling
Awesome fun to drive especially as dEFi4mHerxEnz!!! Owner: @AA4myCZkbv9Ow!!!
Extensive list of safety and convenience features
Iconic design which has SUV like presence
Great ride and stability in the corners
Cons:
Rear seat room was cramped for long-legged passengers
The mileage was okay as compared to the competitors.
Maintenance is tad higher than Maruti/Tata.
It feels even more dated in the interior design department
Ford’s exit from making raised long-term service issues
Ford EcoSport: Judgment: There’s fight left in the EcoSport
If Ford does revive the EcoSport, either as an import (CBU) or as a part of an EV makeover, there’s a readymade market for it.
The car was never just an ordinary compact SUV — it was in and of itself a statement of strength, of personality, and of solid engineering in a market that is all too full of plastic-heavy clones.
The competition has changed since but few have come close to the winning mix of fun, function, and flair to the EcoSport.
If you are a loyal fan, or you’re merely curious, the return of the EcoSport could be a welcome breath of fresh – and familiar – air in the rapidly evolving world of automotive type.