Ford EcoSport MY16 at Geneva Motor Show

Ford has presented the updated 2016 EcoSport at the Geneva Motor Show with minor styling changes and some mechanical upgrades too. The most notable change is the removal of the tail-mounted spare tyre. 

The EcoSport has come under heavy criticism by majority of the international media related to its dynamics and equipment levels. As a result, Ford promise the updated model is better equipped and will handle better than the previous one. 

The spare wheel hasn’t been taken off every variant. And, for the models that don’t have the spare mounted on the back, the tail-gate that swings open has been worked upon for easy partial opening in tight spots.

Inside the cabin, the changes are subtle, the instrument cluster is revised with chrome surround. Ford has added more sound deadening material on the doors and dashboard; the pedals are also sealed better than before to iron out noises. It gets equipment like – winter pack, heated windscreen, mirrors and heated front seats. It might also get a satnav system and rear- view camera later. 

Ford claims the handling of the EcoSport is now better thanks to a retuned suspension and a revised twist beam at the rear. The damper and spring rates have also been revised that help in improving the dynamics, also the ground clearance has been reduced by 10mm to aid handling. Apart from the mechanical changes, the electronics – Electronic Stability Control and power steering system have been tweaked too. 

It also gets a revised powertrain that is now compatible with EU 6.1 emission norms. As a part of this the power output of the diesel is said to have gone up by four horses. 

We aren’t sure if Ford will launch the updated EcoSport in India this year, but expect these changes to be applicable to the Indian model. Ford will launch the new Figo hatchback and the compact sedan this year and we assume an Auto Expo  launch for the updated EcoSport might be on the cards.