FORD ECOSPORT S
The EcoBoost is back, along with a new 6-speed manual
THE FIGO S IS A FUN CAR. YOU don't see too many of them on the road but that isn't a reflection of the capabilities of the little hatchback. Now the S badge gets tacked on to the backside of the EcoSport. As we motor out of a scorching Chennai, expectations are high as this SUV also brings back the 1-litre EcoBoost engine.
The top of the line S trim is based on the Titanium+. In addition to the excellent touchscreen that debuted when the EcoSport was updated six months ago, it also gets a sunroof, orange interior inserts, an updated 4.2-inch display between the dials, matte black 17-inch wheels, more black on the grille and roof and HID headlamps. But what we're interested in is the EcoBoost engine that's mated to the new 6-speed gearbox which debuted on the Freestyle, an upgrade over the earlier 5-speed. If you're not a fan of turbo-petrols the S variant also gets the (admittedly lovely) 1.5-litre diesel but no auto boxes on either.
The other big upgrade is to the suspension that has been tweaked for sportiness but without sacrificing the ride quality – a subject of much complaint from customers of the earlier 17-inchtyre equipped EcoSport. Also the steering has been recalibrated to make it more direct.
On the powertrain front, the 999cc directinjection, three-pot EcoBoost still makes 123bhp and 170Nm of torque at 1500-4500rpm and on the 4-laned highway from Chennai to Pondicherry, we could really stretch the legs of the Ford. And it does have long legs. 5th and 6th gears are overdrive ratios and help you cruise comfortably. Overtaking isn't a problem as long as the turbo is singing above 1750rpm, and then it revs happily all the way up to the 6500rpm redline. There's no sudden jump in torque unlike other turbocharged petrol cars, making it an effortless drive. 100kmph in sixth gear is just 2200rpm on the tacho and that means a relaxed cruise with enough grunt in reserve. However, don't expect the Ecoboost to turn it into a rocket, as it is a relatively heavy SUV at 1281kg.
Turbo petrols are notorious for poor fuel economy if driven with a heavy right foot, and if you make this engine sing you're going to visit the pumps often. However we did average 14kmpl (on the trip computer) while maintaining a steady cruise, even though the car was fully loaded and running in the fast lane. Special mention also goes to the turbo whistle – it is outright addictive and sounds cool. Those of a slight less enthusiastic dispensation will find it irritating, though if you're not an enthusiast, I don't see any reason to buy this car.
The East Coast Road doesn't have anything in the way of corners and I'd be lying to you if I told you the tweaks to the suspension have made the EcoSport a better handler. The steering though felt direct, which is great at low to medium speeds, but because it responds to even the smallest of inputs this can be a problem at speeds if you're not alert.
The ride quality is very European with the undulations being well filtered at triple-digit speeds, allowing you to carry a good clip on the highway without worrying about the occasional pothole. At low speeds though you can feel the suspension doing its work and your passengers might have a complaint or two on the city commute. Personally I like the firm edge which reinforces its appeal as an enthusiast-oriented car. The ground clearance at 200mm is also good for our Indian roads.
Priced at `11.37 lakh, the Ecosport S packs in a lot of kit along with that Ecoboost engine. For 50 grand more you can have the S-spec with the diesel motor. Like the Figo S, the Ecosport S caters to a niche audience, one that enjoys driving. Hopefully, and unlike the Figo S of which you do not see any on the road, Ford will push the Thrill of Driving agenda and build enough awareness for this SUV to pop up on the enthusiast's radar.
Now, if only Ford slots the EcoBoost into the Figo S. ⌧