New Ford EcoSport Gets Mixed Review from Auto Express

Ford’s take on the small urban SUV, the EcoSport, embodies an obvious contradiction: although it looks like an off-roader (yes, I’m referring especially to the location of the spare wheel), it only comes with front-wheel-drive.

Ford’s decision to place the spare wheel on the tailgate may have been dictated by practical terms (boot volume), but as the Auto Express review points out, it’s neither good-looking nor practical, adding 200mm (7.9in) of length to the car. Furthermore, the large swinging rear door hinders access to the boot, especially in tight spaces.

On the inside, the quality of plastics used on the dashboard and door panels is not as high as what rivals like the Peugeot 2008 and Renault Captur have to offer. It's worth mentioning, however, that the car tested was a pre-production prototype.

There are good things about the EcoSport: it drives well thanks to its Fiesta underpinnings, it has a spacious interior and is quite entertaining when opted with the 123hp 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine.

If you’re curious to find out more about the EcoSport make sure you watch the video review posted below.

By Dan Mihalascu

VIDEO

DC Design Gives Ford EcoSport a Thorough Makeover

India’s DC Design aftermarket specialist has revealed a comprehensive tuning package for the Ford EcoSport. Just like it did with the Renault Duster, DC Design has completely changed the looks of Ford’s smallest crossover, both inside and out.

The most striking changes are at the front of the car, with the headlights pushed below into the bumper and featuring a round design, while the original headlight cutout now includes LED daytime running lights and turn signals.

DC Design also completely reworked the front bumper, which now features a massive air intake. The photos don’t show the rear end of the car, so we don't know whether it features upgrades as well.

On the inside, DC Design changed the seating layout from a 2+3 to a 2+2, as the rear bench now features a central tunnel acting as an armrest and including storage and multimedia controls as well. The individual rear seats are electrically adjustable and feature a reclining backrest. Rear passengers also benefit from an additional air conditioning blower unit located above the front armrest and two large LCD displays.

The seats, door trims and dashboard panels are finished in a beige color, while the passenger seat can be folded flat to create a leg rest for the rear passenger. At the front, Ford’s Sync central screen has been replaced by a bigger unit. The car also features mood lighting. The price of the tuning package hasn’t been announced yet.

By Dan Mihalascu

Thanks to Indianautosblog for the tip!

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