Ford EcoSport: The Ford EcoSport is history in India, but not in our minds. When it was introduced back in 2013, it was pretty much the original that brought the sub-4-metre SUV segment to life in India.
It combined the off-road ruggedness of an S.U.V., the practicality of a hatchback and the sedan-like fun-to-drive dynamics.
Even now, you might want a used EcoSport, because they’re so well made, so involving to drive, and so SUV.
Ford might no longer be in India, but the EcoSport is a car that would be etched in design that would define what an average Indian expects a compact SUV to look like.
Design and Road Presence
One of the allures of the EcoSport for buyers would have undoubtedly been its design that deviates from the norm.
There was an upright silhouette, muscular wheel arches and high ground clearance, which could have been from a proper SUV despite the compact size.
The rear-mounted spare wheel was a bit love-it-or-hate-it, but it was there to increase its rugged charm.
It had a unique grille and svelte headlamps that made it look modern and mean. While it’s been around for a while since its last update, the design of the EcoSport still has presence among more recent SUVs.
Interior and Features
Get behind the wheel of the EcoSport and you’re welcomed with a driver-centric cockpit, nice seats, and sturdy build quality.
The dash design is intuitive, and the materials have a sturdy and tough feel. Ford was adamant about functionality and it’s reflected in everything from the placement of controls to the layout of buttons and features.
Top variants came with:
Touchscreen infotainment system interfaced with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Push-button start
Automatic climate control
Cruise control
Reverse camera and sensors at the back
Sunroof in higher trims
With around 352 litres of space, the boot was satisfactory and there was enough rear seat comfort, although three adults can find elbow room a bit of a squeeze.
Engine and Performance
It always had a bit of zip around town, the EcoSport. It was available with petrol engines as well as on diesel:
1.5-litre Ti-VCT petrol (approximately 121 bhp) – Refinement par excellence, ideal for city use.
1.5-litre TDCi diesel (about 99 bhp) – Powerful and efficient for highway travel
Previous models also got a 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbo petrol, a fun engine but one that was dropped later on
The gearboxes were a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic (petrol only). The suspension was adjusted for a compromise between a comfortable ride and good handling.
Steering feel was spot on and easy as it’s not used to the most fun-to-drive cars in the category.
Safety
Safety was one area where the EcoSport consistently excelled. It came with:
Up to 6 airbags
ABS with EBD
Stability control (ESC): Standard and included 처(Post-collision braking): Not available MA(Ground clearance): 7.9 in.
Traction control
Hill Launch Assist
The build quality was sturdy and it fared well in crash tests around the world, so it was a hit with safety-aware customers.
Pros of Ford EcoSport
Good build quality and decent safety features
People-pleasing driving experience and steering that is so good you won’t want to get out of the car
Compact dimensions but SUV styling
A trust worthy diesel with good fuel economy
Feature-rich top variants
Large clearance high off the ground and small enough for city driving
Cons of Ford EcoSport
Rear seatroom is nothing to write home about
Lack of boot space as to rival.
How Ford’s departure from India impacts after-sales support
Available used market only (not in production)
Spare parts may not be available in the future
Ford EcoSport: Verdict
In its day the Ford EcoSport was a game changer. It offered Indian buyers a flavour of compact SUV practicality without having to compromise on driving dynamics or safety.
And even today, it is still an excellent option on the used market, particularly if you value solidity, involving driving experience and the look of an SUV.
If you find one that’s been looked after properly, it remains a good buy — a testament to both Ford’s engineering and the enduring appeal of the SUV.