by Kelly Fisher
It’s been about a year since the last time I wrote about the Ford EcoSport and some things remain unchanged since then. At least when it comes to my opinion on the EcoSport as a vehicle. It is a strong competitor in this segment and one that, even with the new flurry of compact SUVs that have entered the market, should not be ignored.
The EcoSport was one of the first compact SUVs to be launched a couple of years ago and even though every manufacturer and their mothers now have a vehicle in this category, the EcoSport is still a worthy competitor.
Under the bonnet
The latest iteration that I climbed behind the wheel of is the 1.0-litre AT. With a turbocharger attached to it, this 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, unit pushes out 92 kW and 170 N.m or torque. This unit is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and together, the two systems do a decent job of moving the 1 336kg vehicle around. It’s not quick by any stretch of the imagination, but it’s not meant to be.
What it’s like to live with
The EcoSport has always been a tall vehicle and, therefore, it can feel rather hefty around corners. But I’m nitpicking if I’m honest as it didn’t really bother me and I felt rather comfortable behind the wheel. As a daily driver, you’re not going to find much to complain about.
Even with all five members of our family packed into the vehicle, the EcoSport didn’t feel cramped. For context, I am the shortest at 1.52m with all the boys and my husband towering over me by quite some distance.
All the bells and whistles
The biggest thing about the compact SUV market is everything that manufacturers throw in as standard to set it apart from the rest. Those wanting to look at a 1.0-litre EcoSport will be happy to know that there are three trim levels to choose from: Trend, Active and Titanium. Base features in the trend include LED projector headlamps, an 8-inch colour touch screen, a collision mitigation system, seven airbags and a Ford MyKey. The Active iteration features 17-inch alloy wheels, partial leather, a black roof, black fender cladding and black exterior mirrors. The Titanium spec level has everything the Trend offers as well as an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a navigation system, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors at the front and rear and keyless entry and start with push-button start.
Should you get one?
The EcoBoost units of the EcoSport are less pocket-friendly than the 1.5-litre iterations, and in general, on the pricier side of the compact SUV market. It is, however, as I mentioned one of the oldest and longest-standing vehicles in this segment. Both the exterior and interior designs have been given upgrades and updates over the years and as a result, it continues to be a favourite in the segment. If you are shopping in this segment and you have the budget for it, I’d say take a look at this EcoSport. It’s a tried and tested vehicle and worth a look at the very least.
Pricing:
1.0 EcoBoost Active 6AT: R393 700
1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6MT: R358 700
1.0 EcoBoost Trend 6AT: R375 300
1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6MT: R401 600
1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT: R416 900
All EcoSport models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A four-year/60 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.
