2018 Euro-spec Ford EcoSport Facelift gains visual updates, new ST-Line variant, 1.5-litre diesel engine and a host of safety features
Ford introduced a facelift to the European version of the EcoSport SUV and it debuted in front of the public at the ongoing Frankfurt Motor Show. It is more substantial rather than just a visual makeover. The refreshed moel will be up for grabs later in the year and is claimed to deliver more refined styling with enhanced versatility and capability along with sophisticated technologies.
The revised EcoSport spawns a new ST-Line model with several design upgrades such as new set of projector headlamps, sport rear accents and 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels. It is an aggressive take on the standard version and in all honesty has very little chance to enter India as the new Titanium S grade could be added to the lineup.
Although the Euro-spec updated EcoSport and the one soon launching in India have almost similar exterior, the ST-line could prove to be a lot costlier but it has the looks to keep our fingers crossed for perhaps a future appearance. The American auto maker has added a new engine to the lineup as the 1.5-litre diesel motor is good enough to produce a maximum power output of 125 hp and has combined fuel consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 km in Europe.
Also Read: 2017 Ford EcoSport Facelift Spied Undisguised Again Ahead Of Launch
Apart from the inclusion of a new powertrain, the updated EcoSport features intelligent AWD system that is already sold in Edge, Kuga, Mondeo and S-Max. From the middle part of next year, Ford will be selling a six-speed automatic gearbox that was newly developed with low friction for the 1.5 diesel. It is said to ensure much higher fuel economy especially for the new oil-burner.
It is apparent that Ford is pushing boundaries with the EcoSport as the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine making 100 horsepower will be made available from the beginning of 2018. The smallest SUV in Ford’s portfolio in most markets is brimmed with plenty of safety features including the latest SYNC3 infotainment system, eight-inch tablet-like display, roll stability control, blind spot information system, rear view camera, cruise control, etc.
For Europe, Ford will be rolling out the facelifted EcoSport from its Craiova facility in Romania and it will be looking to emulate the success of the outgoing model that received over 1.5 lakh sales in the last three years. Along with Fiesta Active, Ford is hoping to make big sales gains in Europe.
The EcoSport has been spied testing in India several times and is expected to be launched in the closing quarter of this year with visual updates and a new 1.5-litre Dragon petrol engine developing 120 PS maximum power.
2018 Ford EcoSport Facelift Images
