I first drove a Ford EcoSport in India seven years ago.
It was at the initial launch of the original EcoSport in 2012 where we were thrust into rigorous driving conditions that can only be described as 'testy'. Potholes, craters really, psychopathic traffic, unmarked asphalt that ducked and dived like a bull who'd sat in a puddle of sriracha.
My feeling at the time was that it was a great new compact SUV if somewhat rough around the edges - it was initially designed with lesser developed countries in mind after all. Fast forward to right now and that has all been resolved, the EcoSport feels grown up, capable and downright comfortable - even for European standards.
Our test car comes in a stylish metallic Ruby Red and gets the latest in front-end treatments, a Ranger like scowl. The results are effective, but I can't help feeling like we're ready for an all new EcoSport after seven years. But to be fair the biggest improvements are under the tin, most notably beneath the bonnet.
Let's talk about EcoBoost
Yup, the name that's been given to Ford's ECO conscious brand of engines and this one is an award winner, nothing less than Fords most technologically advanced engine ever.
As such it promises superb fuel efficiency when compared to its larger conventional counterparts – but if we’re honest I struggled to get it under 8l/100km despite the claimed figure being 6.3l/100km. Counterpoint – it is rather fun to drive so we can share blame thanks to my right foot.
Performance is perky and as for its carbon footprint, Ford's winning EcoBoost technology is designed to increase economy and reduce CO2 emissions by about 20%. Power is sent to the (front) wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission – tough looking two-tone 17-inch alloys shod in Vredestein Sportrac rubber.
The result is a planted chassis underpinning an eager powertrain making urban commuting as much of a pleasure as a highway cruise. Point it to your favourite curvy asphalt and once again the EcoSport will reward you with hatchback-like handling. And for the rest of your occupants there’s Ford’s latest iteration of their multimedia system, Sync 3 to ensure everyone is suitably connected. That includes Apple Carplay and Android Auto for the initiated allowing pairing your mobile devices to the native 8-inch screen. Add to that Ford’s suite of safety tech and you have a very accomplished family vehicle.
Okay, let’s wrap this up
The Ford EcoSport has really grown up into a mature compact SUV - one with pleasant road manners and a veritable cornucopia of connectivity options. This in a comfortable cabin means I'm happy to recommend the flagship 1.0 Ecoboost auto even at this price of R352k.
For your pennies you get a dependable family car with just enough living space, plenty of character and more modcons than you'd expect. All in an attractive city-friendly package with some clever tech thrown in as well - but I don't need to sell this too hard. I couldn't believe how many other motorists were already in an EcoSport - that's the sort of thing you only take note of when you're behind the wheel of one yourself.
Ford EcoSport 1.0 Ecoboost Titanium Auto Specs:
| Price | R352,800.00 |
| Engine | 1.0l inline 3-cyl turbocharged |
| Gearbox | 6-speed automatic |
| Power | 92kW |
| Torque | 170Nm |
| Driven Wheels | Front |
| 0-100kph | 12.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 181kph |
| Average Fuel Consumption | 6.3l/100km |
| CO2 Emissions | 143g/km |
