Ford Ecosport production version spotted without camouflage!

The Ford EcoSport was spotted completely undisguised in Brazil. The EcoSport production version retains most of the design elements of the EcoSport concept showcased at the Delhi Auto Expo in January. The EcoSport is expected to hit Indian market during the second half of 2012.

The spy photo reveals that the EcoSport spied was ready for a crash test as the stickers and marks found in crash test cars are visible on all sides of the SUV’s body.  The test mule mimics the concept version except for the LED headlamp units and alloy wheel pattern.

The EcoSport, built on the Fiesta platform, has its own character lines differentiating itself from the sedan origin. The EcoSport is a true-blue SUV for it has high ground clearance, butch looks and rear mounted spare wheel. Though there are no spy photos of the interiors, expect a spacious cabin for five occupants and a commendable boot space. Also read: Ford Endeavour 4X4 video review!

The EcoSport will be powered by a 1-liter petrol engine that belts out an impressive 119 bhp of power. The diesel version will likely get the 1.5-litre TCDi motor that powers the Fiesta diesel. This engine puts out just 90 bhp of power and 204 Nm of torque.

The EcoSport will have to grab the attention of buyers from the entry-level sedan segment and also from the premium hatchback segment where buyers look for many features. Hence the features list on the EcoSport is expected to be extensive and will likely have automatic climate control, electric mirrors, airbags, ABS with EBD, voice activated controls (as in the Fiesta sedan), steering mounted audio controls, a music system and Bluetooth connectivity.  We expect Ford to price the EcoSport in the range of Rs. 7 lakh – 9 lakh. The EcoSport will take on the soon-to-be-launched Renault Duster SUV and the production version of the Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha.

(Photo courtesy: Noticiasautomotivas.com)