Ford EcoSport spied with minor tweaks – speculated to be ST variant

The heavily updated Ford EcoSport is expected to unveil itself sometime next month. However, the newer sub-four meter compact SUV has already broken cover in the international market. That being said, another heavily camouflaged test mule has been spotted with minor cosmetic changes – and is speculated to be the top of the line ST variant.

The  test mule was equipped with an aggressively styled, wider body kit. However  the design can only be commented upon once the compact SUV sheds its camouflage. On the side is a new rocker panel and the EcoSport now sits on a freshly designed set of alloy wheels – speculated to be 18inch alloys.

As the vehicle is speculated to wear the ST badge, the state of tune is expected to be higher than its standard models. The vehicle is expected to have its potent engine mated to a Dual clutch transmission and the option of an all-wheel drive may be added to the ST range. Also, the suspension setup is expected to be tweaked to offer improved handling.

Ford will prioritize the international market. However, it is anticipated that the EcoSport ST will make its way to the Indian soil. Ford may adapt the ‘S’ moniker for the ST variant which was  recently seen on its hatchback and sub-four meter sedan. If the ST variant debuts in the Indian market, it will compete against the Renault Duster all-wheel drive.  However, the standard variants will rival against the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Honda WR-V, Mahindra TUV300 and the recently launched Tata Nexon.