Ford is bolstering the EcoSport’s standing in the SUV segment with the addition of a six-speed automatic transmission for the Ambiente trim level.
In addition to this, both Trend and Titanium trims also benefit from the inclusion of Ford’s Collision Mitigation System. Cruise control with an adaptive speed limiter has now been added to the Trend models, while the Titanium gains front parking sensors to complement the rear sensors that are standard across the range.
Ambiente goodness
“The introduction of a six-speed automatic transmission for the EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente represents another trend-setting move for this successful model, which now also offers the best value for money automatic in the entry-level compact utility segment,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at FMCSA.
In total there are seven EcoSport derivatives available, starting with the 1.5 Ambiente in five-speed manual or the new six-speed automatic version. The three-cylinder, petrol engine available in the Ambiente auto’ produces 91kW and 151Nm. A 1.5-litre TDCi turbodiesel model is also available in Ambiente trim, producing 74kW and 205Nm, linked to a six-speed manual gearbox.
The 1.0 EcoBoost engine, which produces 92kW and 170Nm, powers the Trend and Titanium models, which can be specified with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Added functionality
All Ambiente models feature no less than six airbags, while the Trend and Titanium also incorporate a driver’s knee airbag. Multimedia functionality is taken care of through Ford’s SYNC® with Bluetooth and Voice Control, as well as two USB ports, six speakers and a 4.2-inch screen.
The Trend models boast a more sophisticated version of the SYNC® infotainment system with a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, while the Titanium’s SYNC®3 features an 8-inch display as well as embedded turn-by-turn navigation.
Active driving safety features across the board include ABS brakes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control (TC), as well as Roll Stability Control (RSC) in the EcoBoost range.
The 1.0 EcoBoost-powered models are also equipped with Hill Launch Assist, along with Ford’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
All EcoSport models come standard with Ford Protect which includes a 4-year/60 000km service plan, 3-year unlimited distance roadside assistance and 4-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty. This is complemented by a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km.
Spec and pricing
EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente 5–speed manual R279 700
EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente 5-speed manual R289 900
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6-speed manual R319 200
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6-speed manual R357 000
EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente 6-speed automatic R297 600
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6-speed automatic R333 900
EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6-speed automatic R370 400