Ford Launches EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente Auto while upgrading the Trend & Titanium Models
“The compact SUV category grew substantially with the maiden launch of the EcoSport in South Africa in 2013, and the model has dominated this class ever since,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at FMCSA
“The introduction of a six-speed automatic transmission for the EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente represents another trend-setting move for this successful model, which now also offers the best value for money automatic in the entry-level compact utility segment.
Quick Facts - Ford EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente
1.5 3 Cylinder Engine
6 Speed Automatic or a 5 Speed Manual
91kw with 191nm of torque
6,9l/100km - AT (Claimed)
6,4l/100km - Manual (Claimed)
In my humble opinion, the introduction of the six-speed automatic gearbox in the entry level models is a great thing and it should see Ford continue to dominate this segment for years to come.
Ford has also given the EcoSport Trend and Titanium derivatives a feature called the 'Collision Mitigation System' - this is a pre-collision assist feature that alerts the driver of a potential collision with the vehicle ahead, pre-charges the brakes and, if necessary, applies maximum braking pressure once the driver presses the brake pedal. The Trend Models now receive Cruise control with an adaptive speed limiter while the Titanium Model which already had Rear PDC (Park distance control) receives Front PDC making front and rear PDC standard across the range.
To compliment this, the EcoSport Trend and Titanium models now have a more robust underbody protection shield to protect you on those trips you will take off-roads.
The Multimedia which has been Ford's stronghold and their stand-out feature still remains great with the EcoSport Ambiente incorporating Ford’s SYNC® with Bluetooth and Voice Control, as well as two USB ports, six speakers and a 4.2-inch screen.
The Trend models boast a more sophisticated version of the SYNC® infotainment system with a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, while the Titanium’s SYNC®3 features an 8-inch display as well as embedded turn-by-turn navigation.
I personally find Ford's SYNC technology to be a standout performer, its very fast and commands are executed effortlessly, they can however do better on the User Interface.
The Ecosport range is priced from R279,700 for the EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente 5MT and goes all the way up to R370,400 for the EcoSport 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT with All EcoSport models coming standard with Ford Protect which includes a four-year/60,000km service plan, three-year unlimited distance roadside assistance and four-year/120,000km comprehensive warranty. This is complemented by a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty.
