Ford Ecosport

While keeping prices at the bare minimum for a crossover, the automaker did a good job constructing the interior functionalities. Thus, the success of this model can be attributed to an even distribution of goodness across all factors.

Surprisingly, the interior cabin of the Ford EcoSport is as impressive as they say. The latest modifications spiced up the cabin design, giving it a more modern look. Stepping inside, you will be greeted with an all-black theme accentuated by silver finishes. However, design-wise, it looks similar to its predecessor, aside from the notable changes seen at the center console, instrument panel, and dashboard. Some other features include a tachometer, electronic multi-tripmeter, digital clock, and digital odometer.

The automaker also gave this vehicle a higher seating position for the full-size SUV drive-feel. In addition, the EcoSport can be had in leather or fabric upholstery, depending on the variant. Specifically, the range-topper is cladded with leather trimmings, whereas the other variants are decked with polyurethane materials and fabric upholstery. Occupants are also given a plethora of cubby holes and slots at the console for their personal use. To boot, it also has a cooled glovebox and approximately twenty storage compartments.

Comfort & Powertrain

For comfort, this crossover offers a fair amount. The seats are comfortable and offer adequate lumbar support. Some features of the top-spec variant come with speed-sensing door locks, auto-dimming rearview mirror, keyless entry with push start/stop button, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, and more.

The EcoSport is packed with tech-savvy features that its occupants will undoubtedly appreciate for enhanced comfort and pleasure. For instance, passengers would appreciate the SYNC3 infotainment system, which comes with a touchscreen positioned vertically at the center of the dashboard. This makes it easier to navigate while driving around. To boot, it also comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, GPS navigation, and automatic climate control. Some standard features include MP3, AUX-in, USB, iPod, and AM/FM functionalities.

The exterior design of the EcoSport has always been well-liked by many, hence its popularity worldwide. Despite a few changes to its appearance, the automaker ensured that the design remained comparable to that of its predecessor. Retained design features include the spare tire compartment kept on the crossover’s back end along with the same sculpted sides and boxy shape.

The automaker decided to eliminate the slim upper grille in favor of a more imposing, broader grille with horizontal bars accompanied by larger headlamps on the front fascia. To boot, the crossover is also given a squat bonnet design, small air dam, and more prominent fog lights, for a bolder profile. Besides that, the rear end is given a few minor updates as well; this includes a revamped bumper and taillights. In addition, the top-spec EcoBoost variant features HID Projector headlights to set it apart from the rest of the lineup. With the exception of the higher trims, Trend, and Titanium, which feature 17-inch alloy rims paired with 205/60 R16 tires, models like the Ambiente have 16-inch steel wheels coupled with 195/65 R15 tires. Some other features include a power-adjustable exterior rearview mirror, rain-sensing wiper, rearview window wiper, centrally mounted fuel tank, sunroof, outside rearview mirror turn indicator, integrated antenna, and roof rail.

The Ford EcoSport, in contrast to its competitors, runs on the smaller side. Specifically, it measures 4,325 mm in length, 1,765 mm in width, and 1,656 mm in height with a ground clearance of 200mm. Thanks to its dimension, this crossover gives you peace of mind when driving in rugged terrain, as it can avoid rough patches, potholes, and bumps. In addition, the subcompact crossover is up for grabs in six colors: Crystal White, Ingot Silver, Race Red, Absolute Black, Blue Lightning, and Canyon Ridge.

Passenger & Bootspace

The Ford EcoSport can seat up to five passengers, including the driver. Some of the advantages that encourage individuals to purchase this vehicle include a spacious cabin that can support and provide comfort to a large number of passengers and the opportunity to use considerable luggage space of 705-liters. However, tall passengers in the back seat may feel a little cramped because there isn’t much legroom while the inside is spacious. Although, if you compare your height to that of the average Filipino, the EcoSport still affords more than enough. The concern lies mostly for those above the average size.

In terms of suspensions, the Ford EcoSport makes use of a McPherson Strut with coil springs at the front while the rear is decked with a semi-independent twist beam with gas and oil-filled shock absorbers. This crossover rides on the Ford B3 Platform as this refers to the automaker’s architecture for subcompact vehicles and SUVs. Aside from that, none of the variants have any issues with Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) as the cabin is also well insulated.

The 5-door Ford EcoSport has a front-engine front-wheel-drive layout. This crossover may have a decent engine; however, the chassis, per se, is not a compatible match. Maneuvering around is easier with the light and responsive EPAS steering wheel, wider tires, and larger 17-inch wheels. This makes it ideal for those who may find it challenging to cruise along the country’s bustling streets. Finally, thanks to its characteristics that make the ride pleasing for both the driver and the occupants, the Ford EcoSport not only gives a comfortable drive-feel, but passengers at the back will appreciate the lack of body roll. The Ford EcoSport not only provides a comfortable driving experience, but passengers in the back will appreciate the lack of body roll, thanks to its qualities that make the ride pleasing for both the driver and the occupants. The vehicle also remains stable owing to its firmer suspension setup. Aside from its few drawbacks, the new modifications improved the drive quality.

The Ford EcoSport is powered by two engine options — a 1.5-liter Inline 4-Cylinder Ti-VCT engine and a 1.0-liter EcoBoost mill. The former is capable of rendering a power output of 121 horsepower and 150 Nm of peak torque. In contrast, the latter can churn a power output of 123 horsepower and a peak torque of 170 Nm. Depending on the variant, the two options can be had with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed Powershift automatic transmission system.

As of 2021, the Ford EcoSport has four variants made available in the local market: 1.5 L Trend MT, 1.5 L Trend AT, 1.5 L Titanium AT, and 1.0 L Titanium AT.

Fuel Consumption

The 1.5-liter Inline 4-Cylinder Ti-VCT engine has a maximum power output of 121 horsepower and a peak torque of 150 Nm, while the 1.0-liter EcoBoost mill produces a power output of 123 horsepower and a peak torque of 170 Nm. Thanks to this, hill climbs and steep parking ramps are not a problem.

The fuel economy of the Ford EcoSport is said to be around 12 to 14 kmpl. On the highway, the Trend variant specifically has a fuel economy of 17.58 kmpl.

The Ford EcoSport performs impressively in terms of its ability to provide safety. When investing in a vehicle, you should note its capability to render a decent performance, a la mode design, and of course, its ability to secure you and your potential passengers’ safety. Traction control with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is one of its capabilities, which helps to render exceptional control in corners.

Some other features include dual front airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), stability control, front seatbelt reminders, ISOFIX child tethers, and emergency brake light.

The subcompact crossover has not yet been tested by ASEAN NCAP. However, it did receive a 5-star rating from the Australian NCAP with an overall score of 15.14 out of 16 points for frontal-offset impact.

Is Ford EcoSport a good car to buy?

Filipinos are practical shoppers, and the ability of a car to provide and deliver is often what draws them in nitpicking whichever vehicle they believe will best fit their needs. Because this vehicle is primarily intended for everyday use, consumers considering acquiring it places a higher value on its cost-effectiveness. Given the Ford EcoSport's reasonable performance and proximity to repair centers, owning this vehicle will not be a costly strain in the long run. This has a competitive price range for its segment; particularly, it costs PHP 750,000 to PHP 1.19 Million. Thanks to its modern and sleek design, along with its tech-savvy features, the EcoSport remains one of the hot picks of Filipinos.

Final Words

If you are considering practicality and flexible use, opt for the Ford EcoSport. It can seat a maximum of five passengers, and similar to an SUV, it offers a capacious cabin that provides a generous amount of headroom space, not to mention access to tech-savvy features. If you need extra room for baggage, folding down the rear seats will suffice. And because of its car platform, it renders ease of maneuverability. To boot, its price tag is the best in its class.

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