Ford have advised that they have sold more than 45 000 EcoSport models in South Africa since it was launched in 2013, and have recently launched their updated EcoSport range, to keep it competitive in the fast-growing SUV segment, with a range of five derivatives. Featuring fresh new exterior styling, the latest EcoSport range also gains an entirely new, more upscale and user-centric interior that offers a superior occupant experience with floating central touchscreens on most models along with smart stowage solutions, including an adjustable boot floor.

The front-end design of the new Ford EcoSport is dominated by a large trapezoidal grille and distinctive angular headlights, incorporating stylish LED daytime running lights on the Trend and range-topping Titanium models. A sculpted bonnet with a central bulge delivers a cleaner front-end appearance, while the angular fog light housings complete a front three-quarter profile that was inspired by the straps of a rucksack while the EcoSport’s rear bumper and tail light designs also are revised to deliver a cleaner, more sculpted appearance. Attractive new alloy wheel designs complement the rugged, sporty character, and are offered in Gunmetal grey five-spoke 16-inch versions on the Trend series or striking 17-inch rims on the Titanium. The entry-level Ambiente model is fitted with 16-inch steel rims with wheel covers.

The Ford EcoSport delivers a new level of interior refinement with easier to use controls and soft-touch materials, along with an entirely new instrument cluster and center console, ergonomically designed for easy operation with fewer buttons. The new center console features a built-in folding, sliding armrest, and under-seat storage under the passenger seat in the Titanium models, with an integrated storage compartment that is ideal for tablet computers or snacks. New seat designs are optimized for greater front and rear occupant comfort, with luxurious full leather on the Titanium derivatives. The interior features a host of smart storage solutions, including a new height adjustable boot floor that can be raised to provide concealed storage, or lowered to increase luggage capacity to 334 litres. The boot floor uses a special honeycomb construction that makes it gram-for-gram stronger than steel, and able to support more than 300 kg.

Ford’s sophisticated SYNC®3 communications and entertainment system are fitted as standard on the Trend and Titanium models and incorporates Bluetooth and Voice Control. SYNC®3 is supported by the new floating colour touch-screen, which can be operated with pinch and swipe gestures. A 6.5-inch screen is fitted on the Trend models, while the Titanium features an 8-inch version as well as embedded turn-by-turn navigation, while the base model EcoSport Ambiente benefits from Ford’s first-generation SYNC® with Bluetooth and Voice Control, as well as steering wheel audio controls.

The EcoSport comes with Cruise Control with Adjustable Speed Limiter on the Titanium derivative while rear parking sensors and electric windows are provided on all models. Active driving safety includes; Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, as well as Roll Stability Control in the EcoBoost range, and additionally, the 1.0 EcoBoost-powered models gain Hill Launch Assist along with Ford’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. The top-spec EcoSport Titanium adds automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and Electronic Automatic Temperature Control. Other standard features include; a perimeter alarm, remote central locking and new anti-theft door locks, while the Trend and Titanium models add a Thatcham alarm with double dead-locking, and the Titanium gets keyless entry and push button start and a new 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and power-foldable mirrors.

In terms of safety; six airbags are fitted as standard on the EcoSport Ambiente, comprising dual front, side and curtain airbags, while the Trend and Titanium models are additionally equipped with a driver’s knee airbag.

Ford’s award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, powering the Trend and Titanium models, produces an impressive 92 KW of power matched to a peak torque output of 170 NM all the way from 1 400 to 4 500 r/min, with drive to the front wheels. Trend and Titanium buyers can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox or the latest-generation six-speed automatic with steering column-mounted paddle-shifters, that recently made its debut on the all-new Ford Fiesta. The frugal yet torquey 1.5-litre TDCi turbodiesel engine in the Ambiente trim making 74 KW and 205 NM of torque between 1 750 and 3 250 r/min and linked to a five-speed manual gearbox, remains in the line-up.

The Recommended Retail Prices start with; the EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente 5-speed Manual at R 264 500, followed by the EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6-speed manual at R 287 500, EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6-speed automatic at R 300 700, the EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6-speed manual at R 327 800 and the top of the range EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6-speed auto at R 339 900. All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a 4-year / 120 000 km comprehensive warranty, 3-year / unlimited distance roadside assistance and 5-year / unlimited km corrosion warranty. A 4-year / 60 000 km service plan is included, with 15 000 km service intervals.

All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a 4-year / 120 000 km comprehensive warranty, 3-year / unlimited distance roadside assistance and 5-year / unlimited km corrosion warranty. A 4-year / 60 000 km service plan is included, with 15 000 km service intervals.