Top 5 things you should know about the Ford EcoSport

The most talked about SUV this year has to be the EcoSport. After unveiling it at the last Auto Expo, people have eagerly been waiting for more than a year for this compact SUV. Ford has had the SUV ready for a while now and the launch comes in a lot later than expected. By now a lot of you know a lot about the car. We have extensively covered the car in the past and have even driven both the petrol and diesel models and compared it to its arch nemesis, the Duster. But here's what you also need to know

2013 Ford Ecosport diesel images clicked by Varun Anchan

1. There are three engine options so one can choose from a lot of variants

Ford diesel engine

The EcoSport will be made available with three engine options from day one, this includes two petrol units and one diesel. The most talked about engine is the 1.0 litre EcoBoost but since it is only available in the top end Titanium trim, it won't be the entry level model. The 1.5 litre petrol is expected to be the most affordable variant despite missing out on the lower excise duty benefit, to keep the starting price low, the base Ambiente variant lacks safety features such as ABS and airbags and makes do with a manual air con and front-only power windows. We also expect the Ecoboost and top diesel variants to be evenly priced. If you're looking out for an automatic transmission version, then you only have the option to choose the 1.5 litre engine, this will also be the only variant that will feature a traction control system, emergency brake assist, electronic stability control and hill launch assist. Unlike the Fiesta the twin-clutch transmission also gets a manual shift mode. Our pick is the Ecoboost but based on what your needs and driving conditions are, choices will definitely vary.

2. Contrary to many, there is enough space for four adults in there

Ford EcoSport interiors

The EcoSport is under four metres long but still offers sufficient space for four adults. The front is roomy and offers sufficient space even for tall passengers. At the back there is enough knee room and its never really a complaint. However, with three adults in the back bench, the lack of shoulder room is definitely felt. The boot is as spacious as a large hatchback. It is a strict four seater and a comfortable one at that. The EcoSport is big on storage too â€" there are 20 storage places including 9 bottle holders and there's storage under the front passenger seat as well. There's also a 12v power outlet at the edge of the rear seat.

3. As Ford calls it, the EcoSport is an urban SUV

2013 Ford EcoSport

India doesn't get the four-wheel drive model and we will have to make do font -wheel drive. This also means one really can't go off-roading in this SUV. Yes there is definitely more ground clearance than the average passenger car so driving through deep potholes or those really high speed breakers isn't a problem. The EcoSport can also wade through 550mm of water making it perfect to drive in rain filled cities. Venturing out into off-road terrain isn't advisable, the Ford only gets a non metal sump cover and no real sump guard as such.

4. It does handle like a car but expect it to be slightly on the stiffer side

Ford EcoSport diesel

The overall dynamics of the EcoSport can give a few cars a run for their money. It features a MacPherson setup up front and a regular torsion beam at the rear but it still handles well for an SUV and holds its line around corners. The driving position too is very car like with the only real SUV feeling only being the height. The suspension is setup towards the stiffer side and the ride takes the beating. There is quite a bit of noise and vibration felt especially when driven over broken roads and potholes at slower speeds.

5. It comes with a 2 year/100000km warranty and optional plans

If you were worried about the after sales support for the EcoSport, be rest assured that all EcoSports get a 2 year/100000km warranty with an option to extend the warranty for an additional period. The warranty covers all electrical and mechanical failures if any. One can also opt for the service holiday plan that will take care of periodic services and electrical or mechanical failures. And with the total maintenance plan, the complete service support of your car is guaranteed.

Our launch report with prices is here.