Small Utility Vehicles

The new Ford EcoSport came out on top against its petrol-powered rivals, but can it repeat the feat and prove its mettle with a diesel engine under its bonnet?

FORD HAS INTRODUCED the updated EcoSport with revisions to the exterior and interior. The engine has also been retuned and so, this month we pitted it against both its prime rivals to see if it can take on the popular Brezza as well as the toast of the segment, the Tata Nexon.

What are they like to drive?

The updated Ford EcoSport gets a 1.5-litre diesel engine that develops 100hp and 205Nm of torque. The engine is refined, with only some diesel clatter audible at high engine speed. However, as you build up speed, it tones down. The power also gets stronger as you rev the engine and get a bit of a surge from 2,000rpm onwards. The good power availability at low engine speeds also means ambling in the city is more effortless and that you need to use the five-speed manual gearbox less than on the others here.

Now, while the gears are well spaced out, slotting them in takes a bit of an effort and you tend to miss-shift sometimes. Also, at cruising speeds, you do miss that sixth gear as it would help with a lower engine noise and improve fuel efficiency. Handling has been one of the EcoSport’s strong suits and the updated version is no different. Ford has softened the suspension for a better ride and that has worked well. It hasn’t messed much with the handling characteristics. Ride at all speeds is more pliant and composed and the bigger wheels also help the car hold the road better.