The new Dragon-powered EcoSport is surprisingly refined and packs quite a punch in the low- and mid-range. The transition through the ratios is seamless and lag-free at most speeds. It’s incredibly well calibrated and that means a responsive drive. It does run out of breath at high revs, though. The engine is made at the plant in Sanand, Gujarat. Another interesting point to note is that the timing belt runs through an oil-bath, decreasing noise and friction, while improving efficiency and working life.
Driveline aside, the EcoSport has a reasonably soft ride but its taut suspension set-up shines in the corners. It can carry good speed through, and holds its line well. The steering is well weighted and precise. The paddles can be used in ‘D’ mode, but the more manual sport mode ‘S’ is what really holds the revs – as high as 6,300 rpm. The response to the shifts in the upper reaches however, is slightly delayed. It seems more controlled and responsive in ‘D’, left to manage shifts by itself.
Add the great seats to the mix and it’s a fun to drive car; a typical Ford characteristic. With the controls in place right where you need them, it’s a good car to drive. And be driven in. The rear seats are also comfortable, although it can get a bit cramped if you happen to be a six-footer. No real complaints. It’s a good all-rounder.
DIESEL?
Yes. A diesel version is definitely there; it makes up four-fifths of the sales. Powering the EcoSport TDCi is the familiar 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel making 100 PS and 205 Nm. It will be offered only with the five-speed manual transmission.
Driving the diesel was a good experience, with the slightly heavier front end making the steering feel just a tad heavier. The balance and ability of the car didn’t change one bit. It was also fun to drive. The one little change that would make it even nicer would be a more sure-slotting gear lever. As a package, the EcoSport is pretty much the benchmark when it comes to handling dynamics and driving pleasure in its class. It’s also the safest, packing six airbags and traction control as standard in the top-level trim.
Need To Know – Ford EcoSport Ti-VCT Titanium+ AT
Price: Rs 10 lakh (estimated, ex-showroom)
Engine: 1,496 cc, in-line three, petrol
Max Power: 123 PS @ 6,500 rpm
Max Torque: 150 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed, automatic, front-wheel drive
Weight: 1,320 kg
Need To Know – Ford EcoSport TDCi Titanium+
Price: Rs 10.50 lakh (estimated, ex-showroom)
Engine: 1,498 cc, in-line four, turbo-diesel
Max Power: 100 PS @ 3,750 rpm
Max Torque: 205 Nm @ 1,750-3,250 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed, manual, front-wheel drive
Weight: 1,304 kg
