Ford has finally decided to jump into the subcompact crossover craze, and it's doing so with the EcoSport. The little EcoSport has been sold in other parts of the world since 2004, but is finally coming stateside. In fact, we saw these in New Zealand and Australia and can confirm they are a great size—not too big.
As you can see, the 2018 EcoSport wears the corporate front grille. It has a muscular, squat look. Of course, the photos here are going to be one of the top trim levels. It'll be interesting to see what lower model specs look like.
Regardless of trim level, front-drive EcoSports will be powered by the 1.0-liter EcoBoost three cylinder engine. All-wheel drive variants will get a 2.0-liter normally aspirated mill. Both models come with a six-speed automatic transmission only. Insert sad trombone sound.
Unlike other crossovers on the market, the EcoSport will have a swing-away rear tailgate, ala Nissan Cube or 1990 Mitsubishi Montero, if you will. This is a carryover from other markets.
Ford is placing emphasis on the vehicle's technology and creature comforts, such as an available 675 watt, 10 speaker B&O PLAY audio system (available on Titanium models), SYNC 3 connectivity with an 8-inch touchscreen; and USB, 12V, and 110V power plugs.
The EcoSport will be available in 10 colors and four trim levels. It will have as many as 30 storage compartments for people to put their gloves, lattes, mobile phones, burritos, lap dogs, spare change, and pent-up rage. The EcoSport will also have a moveable fold-flat rear seat for hauling even more gear and emotional baggage.
Ford says the EcoSport will go on sale early in 2018.
I like the look and wish it came with a manual transmission. However, the first step is "admitting it," and I know I'm part of the lunatic fringe. Regardless, the compact/subcompact crossover segment seems like it can't miss, and we expect this to be a strong seller.
No comments:
Post a Comment