First Impressions: Ford Launches New EcoSport SUV [Review]
While there’s much to be said about the old adage; “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, even the most loved things can benefit from an update every now and then. While Ford could have easily rested on their laurels with the popular EcoSport SUV, the latest edition of the much loved vehicle proves why a nip here and a tuck there can make all the difference.
With more refined styling and the addition of some pretty sophisticated technologies, the new Ford EcoSport is a more attractive choice than ever before. The interior has a fresh new look that is both stylish and rugged at the same time, making it ideal for families and busy outdoor types who need a car that can keep up with their lifestyle. Little touches like smart stowage solutions and a height adjustable boot floor, make this SUV more versatile and user-friendly when travelling as well as for day-to-day city life.
This blend of rugged SUV functionality with unrivalled city car practicality is what makes this new EcoSport so damn appealing to city folk with a sense of adventure. While the car has a rugged sensibility it doesn’t skimp on the luxury features. Take the new seat designs for example, the seats in the new EcoSport are optimised for greater front and rear passenger comfort, and deliver a more upscale feel, with luxurious full leather on the Titanium models.
But it’s not just about the looks, the car boasts some great new technological features too. The Titanium model includes tech-savvy features like an 8-inch floating central touchscreen, Ford’s sophisticated SYNC3 communications and entertainment system, with Bluetooth and Voice Control, and embedded turn-by-turn navigation.
Cruise Control with Adjustable Speed Limiter, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers on the Titanium models is another great addition that helps drivers keep within speed limits and remove some of the stresses of driving, while rear parking sensors on all models make parking more efficient and safer.
But you don’t need to splash out to get great features, even at the most affordable end of the spectrum, the EcoSport Ambiente benefits from Ford’s first-generation SYNC with Bluetooth and Voice Control, as well as steering wheel audio controls.
I was incredibly impressed with the new EcoSport — offering a comfortable, intuitive, and enjoyable drive, it’s sure to be a popular choice amongst South African drivers in the coming year. Plus, with the EcoSport 1.5 TDCi Ambiente 5MT starting at R264,500 and the EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT topping out at R339,900, the new models prove to be exceptional value for money.
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