Ford has given the EcoSport a set of upgrades for 2015, and the reworked B515 has made its debut in Geneva. The changes, showcased by an EcoSport S model at the show, are led by the removal of the exterior-mounted spare wheel in an optional styling configuration – the compact SUV looks much tidier without it. A tyre mobility kit is provided to offset the omission.
Some differences in operational aspects too – the rear swing-gate on the EcoSport without the rear-mounted spare has been revised to allow for easier partial opening where space is limited. Customers can still go for the version with the rear-mounted spare wheel, of course. Further exterior upgrades will include a sporty rear diffuser element and optional privacy glass for European consumers.
Inside, changes include partial leather seats (standard for Titanium models), an instrument cluster redressed with chrome surround rings, an instrument light dimming function as well as new chrome tabs for the window switches. The position of the handbrake lever has also been altered for better accessibility.
Elewhere, NVH levels have also been reduced with the inclusion of thicker sound deadening materials in the doors and dashboard, as well as tighter seals around the pedals.
Mechanical revisions include a significant upgrade to the drive dynamics of the SUV – the suspension has been retuned, with revised rear twist beam and spring/damper rates for chassis optimisation. Ride height has also been lowered by 10 mm over the current EcoSport.
The power steering assistance and ESC programme settings have also been revised, and Euro market models will get a Winter Pack, which adds a heated windscreen, heated mirrors, heated front seats and floor-mounted rear seat ducting to improve rear seat comfort in cold conditions.
Powertrains have also been upgraded to EU6.1 emission standard, with the diesel gaining five PS in output, and the transmissions have also been tweaked, with reduced gearbox torque truncation in lower gears providing more available torque for EcoBoost and TDCi variants.
The Swiss show car, which previews the changes for 2015, is finished in Deep Impact Blue and features a black roof without roof rails and mirror caps as well as unique 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, there’s a four-inch colour display, and trim elements include lower instrument panel, centre console and door boards done in charcoal black.
The Ford EcoSport premiered in 2012 at the Delhi Auto Expo, and was launched in Malaysia last year. It’s only available in 1.5 litre normally-aspirated form here, in two variants, Trend and Titanium.
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now this better look at the rear but front remain unchanged
Finally no big spare tyre. It is not the best looking compact suv out there but it is quite a huge improve the rear.
Told ford before to remove that spare tyre , look at CX3 and HRV.
Now waiting Toyota to trash the rush into river and come out with bore model.
iriz active mana?
The compact crossover is a fast growing segment, as shown by the record-breaking bookings for the HRV. A missed opportunity for Ford, indeed. The Ecosport arrived earlier than the HRV but failed to attract as many buyers. The awkward exterior, cramped interior and lack of user-friendliness are some of the Ecosport’s weak points.
Padan muka Ford Malaysia. Look at HRV. Your are poor(lousy) businessman in Malaysia.
Please study the market.
Know what target customers want/desire.
A lot of weak points in your Ecosport.
You can always repeat the same mistake in your coming Mondeo and Everest this year.
Sendiri Daydream and you will Auto-Capai Xtremely good sales.
hrv….designed in japan sold in japanese market….ecosport….build in india for india market….then sold to overseas as it is…come on la even my macai wont buy ecosport.
I think the car looks like tip-toeing…
Tak best…