VFM SUV with rugged Looks

Exterior

I have test driven Ford Ecosport and Duster and finally Booked Ecosport 1.5 Trend TDCi. In my observation, Ford Ecosport is the only vechile in the price bracket of 6-9 lakhs where you don't compromise on looks. It looks great from every angle, be it front, Rear or Sideway. The Front has got Killer looks and Rear with mounted tyre too differentiate it with other Compact SUVs ( I didn't like Safari Strom  coming without Rear mounted tyre) . In nutshell this vechile has got the modern techy looks in comparision to any other vechile in sub 10 Lakh Segment . 

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

Personally, I like beige interior as it gives you impression of a roomy cabin, but considering that Ford is sticking to the Sports theme, Black is acceptable. Dashboard seems to be little extended, which has eaten up space of the cabin. Front seats are quite comfortable, with height adjustement and both way adjustment of steering columan, it becomes suitable for varied height of Drivers. Cabin finish is good but has got some improvement areas. Rear head space is good but leg space is ok ok. Overall there is a little compromise in terms of space as its sub 4 M SUV. But spending 200K more for little more space in Duster doesn't seems to be a good idea.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

Comparing 1.5 Trend Diesal with Duster 85 ps RXL, Ecosport has got the edge. it has got better acceleration. I overtook a Merc- Benz Bus at 140KM/hr and dont have to think twice. Bracking is great with ABS. I applied at 140KMPH and was on 80KMPH in no time without any jerky feeling. I also liked the Electronically assisted Steering as my old Indigo LX too have the same and feels too good in city driving. Can't comment about fuel economy. Gearbox too is smooth and is tuned for city ride rather than highway drive.

Ride Quality & Handling

Handling is good but at high speed it has good little body roll while turning. Overall ride qualtiy is good but is not comparable to a sedan in the same price range.

Final Words

 Ecosport is VFM as you won't find this good looking and feature rich Vechile in this Price Bracket. In the price range of 7-9 lakhs, you will find most hatchback converted sedans like Dzire, Amaze or Base models of Sunny/Scala, so Ecosport seems to be a better option as its a crossoever. Spending 2 Lakhs more on underpowered Duster (85 PS) is a insane idea ( Atleast for me). Yes, if you can spend more, then you have got many options like XUV500, Scorpio, Duster 110 PS in SUV segment or Cruze, Vento, Verna in Sedan.

Areas of improvement  

Cabin Space and Dual Tone Beige Interior 

 

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