Ford EcoSport undergoes changes

Ford is set to take the Ecosport through a rigorous transformation to change its fortunes.  During the Geneva Motor Show, the auto maker announced that the new 2016 version will receive various updates on its exterior look, drive dynamics and equipment all in a bid to transform the automaker’s smallest SUV. The manufacturer will use the Ford Global B-car platform for this model. This five-door model will weigh between 1170 kg and 1270kg. The Ecosport will run on either 15-inch steel or 16-inch alloy wheels depending on the trim level. The small SUV will have a length of 167.5 inches, 69.5 inch width and a height of 69.5 inches. The front fascia has been remodeled to feature a new hexagonal grille with three stylish chrome bars. The headlights and taillights have also been redesigned and will feature LED technology as well as automatic headlights and new fog lights. The car will feature a new roof rack as well, but perhaps the biggest news about the 2016 Ford EcoSport is the fact that the manufacturer has decided to drop the spare wheel mounted on its tailgate. Still on the rear, the license plates have been shifted from the rear bumper to the center of the tailgate. The body has been made using lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum which will result in a reduced weight, a greater fuel economy and speed. The 2016 Ford EcoSport will be availed in three trim levels which will be the Trend, Titanium and Titanium (o). Inside the cabin, the manufacturer has designed a futuristic new look. The instrument cluster has been redesigned and will be surrounded with shiny chromed bars while the power window buttons have also been hooked with chrome tips. The handbrake lever will be shifted to a more convenient position. Reports also indicate that the Trend and Titanium trim levels will get leather covered seats that come with upholstered cloth or fabric. The manufacturer is also said to be making the cabin totally sound proof by installing thicker sound absorbs. The small SUV will have a two-row seat arrangement that will accommodate five adults and still leave plenty space for cargo. The car will also feature some cool features meant to make family drives more comfortable and enjoyable. Additional features will include a new infotainment system, a SatNava navigation system, parking assistance with a rear view camera as well as heated seats and a heated windscreen. Other features will include Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, WiFi hotspot and a 4-inch touch-screen display. For safety purposes, the vehicle comes with enhanced seatbelts and airbags. For the base trim, the manufacturer is expected to go with a 1.5 L diesel or gasoline engine. The gasoline engine will produce 112 hp and will be mated with a 5-speed manual transmission system. The diesel engine on the other hand will produce 90 hp and will be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission system. Higher trims will feature a 1.0 L 3-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine. Details on its fuel economy are not yet out, but is seen to be really impressive. Certainly a little better than the previous generation, which is for the diesel engine of 1.5 liters an average of 4,4l /100km, petrol EcoBoost 1.0 spent a combined 5.3 l / 100km. Ford has not released any official information concerning the 2016 Ford EcoSport price or release date. However,  the base trim is expected to cost around $20,000. The main rivals in the competition of small crossovers are Fiat 500X and Volkswagen Crossfox. — SG