Ford EcoSport, the heartthrob of Indian automotive bench, saw a facelift at the Geneva Motor show. The compact SUV that is sold in large numbers across the nation, mostly due to tail gate mounted spare wheel, now for the facelift in Europe is ripped off that tranquility. The reason cited: tail gate mounted spare wheel isn’t perceived as a gesture of sophistication in that continent, instead they refer it as a sign of utility. Now, to game big on that, maker removed that extra wheel and fixed a new bumper with a diffuser, repositioned tail-gate handle and number plate fixture for the more settled posture. A one of the trims present at venue also housed black sunroof and mirror caps, along with the 17-inch wheels and privacy glass. But as per reports, the standard buyers will be able to drive away with tyre mobility kit; and those wishing to go with the taste as per Indian buyers can opt for the rear-mounted spare wheel which continues to stay there in the ‘optional list’.
No changes reported from the technical point of view, not anything other than the more stiffness added to hassis, tweaked spring and damper, and reduction in ride height by 10mm. All of them had compelled the maker to return a better drivability which it did the job by refining the power-steering mechanisms and ESP.
Moving inside the cabin, noticeable changes comes across the vision with regards to those chrome encircling on new speed diodes, reworked hand brake lever position, partly leather seats (only for a selected trim), and better sound deadening material around the pedals, dashboard and doors. A four-inch color display is also added on the Europe-spec variants. The winter pack for the cold climates will get buyers the heated seats, windscreen, mirrors and also the rear seat ducts. Ford has said to include satellite navigation and rearview camera by the end of this year on EcoSport. Applying the EU6 norms there gained the EcoSport more 5bhp of power on all the trims across the range of diesel variants. Buyers in Europe can buy the new Fiesta-based compact SUV only after June.
