Ford is gearing up for the launch of the facelifted version of their compact SUV, EcoSport, at the forthcoming 2016 Sao Paulo Motor Show. Almost production ready prototypes have been spotted doing final testing ahead of the launch. These camouflaged test mules were seen on the Brazilian streets.
These test mules indicate that the facelift will receive a revised front with reworked grille, tweaked headlamps and taillamps, and redesigned bumpers; all taking cues from the new Ford Kuga. The prototype’s interior suggested a new steering wheel with revised centre console and a set of rectangular air-con vents. The facelift will have a Sync 2 infotainment system with a colour screen and a fresh instrument cluster.
Under the hood, the international version will receive a new engine, a 1.5-litre 'Dragon' three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, which will replace the current 1.6-litre Sigma unit. Whereas, when the facelifted version will be launched in India, it will continue with the existing engine options. A 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine generating 99bhp of power, while petrol variants will continue to be powered by a 1.5-litre Ti-VCT and a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine will continue to do duty in the facelifted EcoSport in India.
After the display at the Sao Paulo Motor Show next month, the car will go on sale sometime next year. It is reported that the production of the new EcoSport for European markets will shift to Romania from India, from the second half of 2017, while the American-spec will be exported from India.
Stay tuned for more details on the facelifted Ford EcoSport on CarWale.
