Ford EcoSport now even better
The compact crossover segment is bursting at the seams of late. This is because it is a very popular segment and just about every manufacturer is fighting for a piece of the pie. One of the early entrants and one of the most popular is the Ford EcoSport which was recently refreshed.
The new Ford EcoSport features bold, dynamic Ford SUV styling, reflecting the new key design traits introduced with the mid-sized Kuga in 2017. The front-end design is dominated by a large trapezoidal grille and distinctive angular headlights, incorporating stylish LED daytime running lights on the Trend and range-topping Titanium models.
The EcoSport’s rear bumper and tail light designs also are revised to deliver a cleaner, more sculpted appearance. Customers can choose from seven bold exterior colours across the three model lines, comprising Ambiente, Trend, and Titanium.
The Ford EcoSport delivers a new level of interior refinement with easier to use controls and soft-touch materials, along with an entirely new instrument cluster and centre console ergonomically designed for easy operation with fewer buttons.
New seat designs are optimised for greater front and rear occupant comfort, and deliver a more upscale feel, with luxurious full leather on the Titanium derivatives. The interior features a host of smart stowage solutions, including a new height-adjustable boot floor that can be raised to provide concealed storage, or lowered to increase luggage capacity to 334 litres. The boot floor uses a special honeycomb construction that makes it gram-for-gram stronger than steel and able to support more than 300 kg.
Ford’s sophisticated SYNC3 communications and entertainment system is fitted as standard on the Trend and Titanium models and incorporates Bluetooth and Voice Control. SYNC3 is supported by the new floating colour touchscreen, which can be operated with pinch and swipe gestures. A 6.5-inch screen is fitted on the Trend models, while the Titanium features an 8-inch version as well as embedded turn-by-turn navigation.
The new Ford EcoSport delivers an enhanced, more refined driving experience with reduced levels of noise, vibration, and harshness. Ford’s multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine takes centre stage in the revised line-up, exclusively powering the Trend and Titanium models.
The six-time International Engine of the Year in the sub-1.0-litre category delivers an impressive combination of performance and fuel efficiency and is ideally suited to the EcoSport. It produces an impressive 92kW of power matched to a peak torque output of 170Nm.
The EcoSport remains and attractive proposition within the segment and as we have elaborated on offers great value for money. It is able to lot into the everyday needs of most as well as accommodates your active lifestyle.
Also worth a look: the Ford Transit Custom and the Ford Escort Mk1 RS Returns as 800kg Track Weapon.
FAQ
Q: What does the Ford EcoSport cost in South Africa?
The Ford EcoSport starts from around R341,800 for the base Ambiente model, with the mid-spec Trend priced at approximately R378,900 and the flagship Titanium variant commanding around R425,600 in South Africa.
Q: Is the Ford EcoSport worth buying in 2024?
The refreshed Ford EcoSport offers solid value with its updated styling, SYNC3 infotainment system, and clever storage solutions, making it a decent choice for buyers wanting a compact crossover with established reliability, though it faces stiff competition from newer rivals like the Suzuki Vitara Brezza and Nissan Magnite.
Q: What engine options are available in the Ford EcoSport?
The Ford EcoSport lineup typically includes a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing around 90kW and 150Nm, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission depending on the variant.
Q: How does the Ford EcoSport compare to competitors like the Hyundai Venue?
While the EcoSport offers more boot space at 334 litres and Ford's proven reliability, the Hyundai Venue counters with a longer warranty, more modern cabin tech, and slightly better fuel economy, making the choice largely dependent on your priorities between space and tech features.
Q: What are the main problems with the Ford EcoSport?
The main criticisms of the Ford EcoSport include its rear-mounted spare wheel affecting boot access, relatively firm ride quality on poor road surfaces, and interior materials that feel less premium compared to some newer competitors, though overall reliability remains solid.
Should You Buy It?
The best compact crossover under R350,000 in South Africa isn't quite the refreshed Ford EcoSport, but it's definitely worth considering if you can stretch to the R378,900 Trend model. The EcoSport's updated styling, practical 334-litre boot space, and Ford's solid aftersales network make it a sensible choice for families wanting proven reliability. However, at these prices, you're competing against the more modern Suzuki Vitara Brezza and feature-packed Nissan Magnite. If you prioritise interior space and Ford's established dealer network over the latest tech, the EcoSport Trend represents decent value, but for cutting-edge features and better bang for your buck, consider the newer Japanese alternatives first.
