[fiat_tarun]

Originally Posted by arjab

There was a talk of moving out the present DV5 diesel, which was jointly developed between Ford & PSA, and substituting it with Ford's "Panther" diesel engine series. The 2.0L "Panther" already powers the Endeavour. A 1.5L version of the "Panther" diesel with around 120ps is apparently in the works for the EcoSport. Now whether that engine is coming in this minor facelift or in the 2023 major facelift is anyone's guess.
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I don't think a 1.5L Panther (EcoBlue) was being planned originally as Ford was moving to Mahindra powertrain (1.2 TGDI & the diesel). Now with the JV dissolved, they have to figure out their powertrain strategy for the 2 upcoming SUV's in 2023 and the EcoBlue will be their only option. There is no chance of it making it to the current Ecosport.

The biggest change with this facelift was to be the Mahindra 1.2TGDI with 130bhp but with that not happening, it will be another cosmetic update to try and keep the product relevant.

I already love the aggressive front and feel it's the rear that needs a change. The rear has not changed since the launch in 2013 and even an update with LED tail lights will freshen it up a bit. And it goes without saying, please make Sync 3 standard.

[RavSam]

Originally Posted by giri1.8

While everyone is disappointed with the scoop, I am actually glad, this shows Ford is here to stay (Atleast for now).

Remember Chevrolet displaying the Beat sedan and everything and then winding up? Although this test mule run has more positive outlook, even the Ambassador had test mules running for Compact Size and 7-seater one before shutting down.

What I really want is Ford to bring in some desirable products, and with interior space which is good and feels airy. The Aston-Martin like grille looked "Wow" at the beginning and then became boring instantly. If Ford can create a Thar Competitor like a Mini-Bronco then nothing like it.

[07CR]

I will go against the tide, in saying this car actually still does not need a major revamp. What they need to do IMO-

1) Make SYNC 3.0 available in atleast the Titanium variants (if not all variants with touchscreen)
2) Launch diesel automatics. Keep that option even in the top S trim.
3) Launch petrol automatic in S trim.
4) Make some minor changes to the rear (read- add LED tailamps), some minor feature additions like remote engine start on titanium and above variants, and rear drive view monitor like Hyundai/Kia siblings.
5) Needless to mention, not to delete any existing equipment from the current variants.

With these above changes, the product will still stay relevant with boost in sales for about 30-40% atleast for next two years, until when the generation change occurs.

[DriveOnceMore]

When world wants an ALL-NEW Ecosport , Ford is still working on face-lifting their decade old car.
Age of the car is clearly showing up and no amount of facelift could hide that.
I wonder how the company is going to survive with this approach?
Two sales duds, one blockbuster hit (from the past) and one always number 2 (by huge margin) in its segment SUV.

[PrasunBannerjee]

I personally like the current gen EcoSport's looks the best, including the DRL positioning. Still one of the most handsome ones in the segment. Its still on my wishlist, no new launches could sway it away. Ford, do bring a proper update, and a timely next generation to India, and yes, PLEASE STAY!

[jithin23]

Originally Posted by arjab

There was a talk of moving out the present DV5 diesel, which was jointly developed between Ford & PSA, and substituting it with Ford's "Panther" diesel engine series. The 2.0L "Panther" already powers the Endeavour. A 1.5L version of the "Panther" diesel with around 120ps is apparently in the works for the EcoSport. To support an SCR+DPF configuration, with competitive power output figures, apparently the "Panther" series is better.

The 1.5 EcoBlue is already in use in the European market. Even the European EcoSport is currently using the 1.5 EcoBlue with 125PS and 300Nm torque. This engine is so versatile that it's used from hatches to vans and in different power tunes of 100 and 125 PS as well as AT+4WD and MT+4WD combo too. Plus will fall under the tax bracket.

However, the 1.5 EcoBlue is a derivative of the 2.0EcoBlue engine and these already do duty in several parts of the world. It's just a matter of effort by Ford to bring this engine to India.

Originally Posted by 07CR

I will go against the tide, in saying this car actually still does not need a major revamp. What they need to do IMO-

1) Make SYNC 3.0 available in atleast the Titanium variants (if not all variants with touchscreen)
2) Launch diesel automatics. Keep that option even in the top S trim.
3) Launch petrol automatic in S trim.
5) Needless to mention, not to delete any existing equipment from the current variants.

With these above changes, the product will still stay relevant with boost in sales for about 30-40% atleast for next two years, until when the generation change occurs.

I've pointed these out to the Ford management enough number of times. We need to see until they launch the facelift if they're really going to implement or not.

The worst part is that sync 3 was given from trend variant onwards from Nov 2017- Apr 2018 and Ford silently removed it citing customer feedback which was a polished way to tell that they were doing cost cutting. In 2018, Titanium itself was very well loaded and not much had to be changed. They just shot themselves in the foot.

[karan86]

Looking at these images, If I was in the market for a compact SUV, I would wait until they launch this. Reason? Till date, no other sub 4m compact SUV can match the Ecosport's ride and handling qualities. Also, all its competitors, even with some really good engines, fail to form an emotive connect with the driver, which is where the Ecosport shines brightest.

Just yesterday, a 300-km weekend trip in a petrol-powered Brio automatic which was bought used last week, was an eye-opener! Although the little thing returned 14 kmpl, compared to a diesel-powered vehicle, it just doesn't make sense to spend twice as much to run a petrol-powered car while feathering the throttle. On the other hand, with the Polo TDI, even with an efficiency be damned driving style, things never drop down below 20 km/l! For how much fuel they gulp once the turbo is properly spooled, I don't think I would dare to touch a turbo petrol car even with a broom!

Coming back to the topic, for how the petrol-only Kushaq has been priced, for how the Koreans are yet to hit the nail on the spot when it comes to vehicle dynamics, and the ever-increasing fuel prices, a diesel-powered Ecosport would be my natural choice in the INR 10 - 15 lakh space. This Ford might appear dated, but it holds its value really well in the resale market as I figured recently while hunting for a used car and the cost of maintenance is less than half of what I pay at VW!

[arjab]

Originally Posted by fiat_tarun

Now with the JV dissolved, they have to figure out their powertrain strategy for the 2 upcoming SUV's in 2023 and the EcoBlue will be their only option. There is no chance of it making it to the current Ecosport.

"Panther" is the development code name. "EcoBlue" the marketing moniker.
Panther 1.5 diesel is finalised for EcoSport. But it seems it'll come in the 2023 major facelift.
Or who knows Ford may spring a surprise and put it in this facelift as well.

Originally Posted by jithin23

It's just a matter of effort by Ford to bring this engine to India.

Yes. And signs are favourable it will be coming. Whether in this minor facelift or the 2023 major overhaul it remains to be seen. Ford's Sanand engine plant can make all derivatives of the "Panther" line-up.

[Benoit]

Originally Posted by arjab

Panther 1.5 diesel is finalised for EcoSport.

If this engine makes it to the ecosport in the 125 PS/300Nm configuration with a manual gearbox, a year after launch(for the niggles), I am buying it without looking else where.

The Ecosport 1.5 TDCI is no slouch, but I feel it doesn't feel as sporty as it does in the figo(obviously due to the weight advantage). Also, Ecosport is the only diesel SUV with a 5 speed gearbox. Ecosport needs this engine and a 6 speed gear box.

[bwildrd#1]

Originally Posted by aravind.anand

Changes are limited to the front bumper and alloy wheels. The DRLs move to the bumper, around the squarish housing that houses a round fog lamps.

Thanks for the scoop. By any chance were you able to see the headlight assembly properly. Did they appear like LED units? Couldn't identify from the image you shared.

[denny_ace]

Originally Posted by arjab

A 1.5L version of the "Panther" diesel with around 120ps is apparently in the works for the EcoSport. Now whether that engine is coming in this minor facelift or in the 2023 major facelift is anyone's guess

In addition, Ford India should seriously consider hybrid engines for the 2023 EcoSport in order to stay ahead of the competition in the face of rising fuel prices and gradual-yet-sure transition to BEVs. They should be taking designing cues for the EcoSport from the Ford Puma available in Europe or the Maverick pickup truck recently announced for the US.
The Maverick makes use of larger hybrid engines (2L EcoBoost & another 2.5L engine) and yet promises 40 mpg in the city which translates to an FE of 16.9 kmpl IN THE CITY. And, surprisingly, the price of the base variant is less than $20,000/-. While the larger engines are used in the Maverick to facilitate hauling heavy stuff and increased towing capacity, the EcoSport could make use of smaller versions of these hybrid engines to improve FE further (the low FE of the current & previous models of the EcoSport has been a cause of concern, at least for some of us) and keep taxes under check. The renowned 1.0L 125 PS EcoBoost engine could make a comeback in that case. The elegant and refreshing cabin of the Maverick is another highlight. Attaching a short 3-minute video:-

https://youtu.be/2YtKP5ddb6A

Personally, the EcoSport will be a gradual and sensible upgrade from my current Freestyle. Even the current owners of EcoSport can upgrade to a more fuel efficient version of their favourite car which would boast of fresh exterior and interior looks

[RPM1706]

Was hoping this would be like a proper refresh, especially of the interiors. I still feel the EcoSport is good looking and looks the part from outside. It's the dated interiors and the feature list that need to be pulled up to the high standards set by the competition.

In fact, that's all Ford needs to do. The EcoSport has competent engines, best in class ride and handling and the looks (to my eye).

So why Ford can't fill the gaps and make the EcoSport feature for feature as at par with the other more recent launched cars is beyond me.

I was, like many here, so looking forward to the Kushaq but, despite being a fine product, there are just too many things that disappoint, especially the pricing.

So was planning to relook at the EcoSport. But in the current state, there's no way I think I can hold on to it for 8-10 years as my primary car. Now if they can bring the Territory to India and do a good job with that, will have to wait it out...

[meto]

Originally Posted by 07CR

I will go against the tide, in saying this car actually still does not need a major revamp. What they need to do IMO-

I complete agree with you. Last year i was looking for a new car and Ecosport titanium did not felt dated compared to a Venue SX. Ecosport have aged very well and we only feel it to be dated because it has the same look and feel for years (and years). On the other hand, this also means reliably and predictability, which is important for buyers like me. Where Ecosport missed out is on the variant wise feature distribution, few of which are corrected with the latest rejig ( ESP in Titanium). Ecosport is aimed to a very focused clientele and i doubt been dated is impacting its sales. A proper top end diesel automatic should boost up its numbers significantly. I hope this is rectified soon.

[TrackDay]

Speaks of the confidence Ford has in the EcoSport. No doubt it is a very competent product despite being launched nearly a decade ago. The car was a bit futuristic looking back then and has helped it to remain relevant in our market. There is nothing like the EcoSport when it comes to feel and driving dynamics in that segment. However Ford as a brand needs to bring in the next iteration/generation rather than milk this model too long.

[arindambasu13]

The Ecosport is still one of the most handsome and cleanly proportioned SUVs in the market, despite the onslaught of newer players in the segment. Clean design, butch looks and a solid build, across all variants and especially in the top tier S trim. Mechanically very competent, with a good balance of ride and handling. Extremely happy with my TDCI Ecosport and itching to get it out on the expressway now that the lockdown in Karnataka is slowly and sure lifting. Highway cruising on this machine is a real joy!

Refreshes and updates to the looks are always welcome (if done tastefully enough), but Ford does need to to bring in a good turbo petrol and a diesel automatic. Hopefully that will happen soon, since it continues to be a relatively strong seller even though it is close to a decade old in the market.