Introduction
Shortly after a mid-life update, Ford has brought back the 1.0-litre EcoBoost motor. This is after it first made an appearance in 2013. Performance-wise, not much has changed – the 999cc motor makes 125hp and 170Nm of torque. But, when it comes to the gearbox, this model gets a 6-speed unit replacing the 5-speed one. The EcoSport wears a new ‘S’ badge and features many visual changes.
On the outside
As the name suggests, the S is a sporty variant of the EcoSport. This version features a lot of black bits – like the front grille, roof rails, fog lamps and headlights. All of which are chrome on the regular model. The headlights on the car are now HIDs replaces the rather regular looking halogen bulbs. Lastly, the car also gets redesigned 17-inch rims.
On the inside
This variant of the EcoSport is sporty on the inside as well. It features black bits in many places along with contrasting orange bits. The seats in this car get orange stitching too. The instrumentation now features chrome rings and a new LCD screen. However, the biggest differentiating factor on the inside is the new sunroof.
The music system in this car is handled by the same 8-inch touchscreen that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, this variant exclusively gets a tyre pressure monitoring system. The car also gets aluminium finished pedals. Other than this, the interior remains largely similar to the Titanium+ model. It gets the same part-leather seats, cruise control and ambient lighting.
How does it drive?
To begin with, the refinement levels are impressive. You can hear near to no noise at idle. Vibrations are well contained as well and you don’t feel it through the steering or gear lever. But, as you build speed, the engine does make noise. Every time you let off the throttle, you can hear the blow-off valve but, this can get irritating. However, once you cross 3000rpm, the engine note gets coarse and isn’t so likeable.
The car does deliver its power in a linear and brisk manner; the manufacturer has also managed to get rid of some of the lag that the previous model was known for. As soon as you step on the pedal power is delivered in an aggressive manner. This doesn’t stop all the way upto 6600rpm. The car also doesn’t have any flat spots in the rev range. One can pull off quick overtakes. The clutch on this car is a bit firm and not as easy to use as some of its rivals.
Similarly, the car’s suspension is on the firm side. This does improve high-speed stability but results in a bumpy ride at most speeds. The ride on this car can’t be compared to some of its rivals. Some of the harshness could be owing to the fact that the S gets larger alloys.
Should I buy one?
The American brand is offering the S trim on both petrol and diesel variants. These S models come at a premium of Rs 85,000 over the otherwise top-spec Titanium+. In the diesel model, additional features only consist of the headlights and sunroof. But, the petrol also gets you the EcoBoost engine and the six-speed manual gearbox. What’s more, is the sporty styling and good handling. This is why the petrol model is good value for money.
