Ford unveiled the 2013 EcoSport mini SUV at the 2012 Auto Expo in Delhi. The mini SUV has created a sensation in the auto industry and we are eagerly waiting to see a production version rolling out very soon. Ford has quenched our thirst by announcing that it will unveil four new models at the Beijing Motor show, and one of them is going to be the production ready Ford EcoSport.
Besides India, Ford will launch the EcoSport in other emerging markets like Brazil and China. Brazil could be one of the first markets where the 2013 EcoSport rolls in, and it will replace the previous generation. Testing has already begun in China and the crossover will roll to our shores eventually.
The 2012 Beijing Motor show is scheduled for 22nd of this month. However, Ford could unveil the 2013 EcoSport in Brazil, a day before the event kicks off. While the production version is largely based on the concept we have seen, the minor differences creep in with replacement of the LED headlamps with the more conventional headlamps in the production version.
Powering the EcoSport is a 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged gasoline engine. This breed of engine features groundbreaking performance together with spectacular fuel-economy. India is likely to receive a diesel variant looking at the rising demand of diesel-powered cars in the Indian market. This could be a 1.5-litre TDCI diesel engine borrowed from the all-new Fiesta.
For the Brazilian market, Ford gives an option of a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated, a 1.6-litre turbocharged diesel engines and a 1.6-litre TDCI motor. China is expected to be the biggest market for the EcoSport, where the 1.0-litre EcoBoost will make its way under the hood.
The Ford EcoSport will carve way for a whole-new segment of compact SUVs in the Indian market. Price of the EcoSport is expected below Rs 10 lacs and will be launched in Indian late 2012 or early 2013.