Ford->ke31 took its opportunity at the 2012 Auto Expo to announce the globalization of its new EcoSport->ke2166 compact SUV - the second of eight new vehicles that Ford plans to offer worldwide. The new model will combine best-in-class design, technology, quality, and safety to aim itself towards a new generation of consumers.

The new Ford EcoSport will be powered by the newest and smallest-ever 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine and uses twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) to further improve performance and economy.

"EcoSport has a tough, robust attitude that says ‘I can play with the big boys’," said J Mays, group vice president, Design, and chief creative officer, Ford Motor Company. "But it also makes you want to play. It’s friendly and sociable, and this unique mix is its secret formula. That’s why it is so appealing. EcoSport is perfect for crowded urban streets and it inspires you to seek adventure away from the city too."

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Ford EcoSport.

2012 Ford EcoSport

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Ford EcoSport
  • Engine/Motor: EcoBoost engine
  • Horsepower: 118
  • Torque: 125
  • Transmission: five-speed manual transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

The new EcoSport SUV combines Ford's new global design language with an aerodynamic honing for fuel efficiency, a short, raked hood, and a distinctive profile. The car's front end is defined by a wide hood with modern, oblique headlamps and a high-mounted trapezoidal grille which gives the vehicle an element of pride and a signature Ford face. At the rear, the car has a large rear window which wraps around to the sides along with distinctive taillights.

For the interior, Ford will deliver the same high levels of craftsmanship, material quality, and quiet isolation from noise that have been central elements in other new-generation global products currently offered by Ford.

"The expressive exterior of this all-new new vehicle with its distinctive compact SUV character creates some very strong expectations for what you’ll see in the interior," Mays said. "When we reveal the interior of the new EcoSport, it will be just as expressive and well-crafted as the exterior. It’s a very important part of the inviting spirit of EcoSport."

Engine

For the new EcoSport, Ford is offering an all new 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine that delivers a total of 118 HP and 125 lb-ft of torque available from 1,300-4,500 rpm. This engine is offered with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) to further improve performance and economy and is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

"The 1.0-litre EcoBoost delivers great low-speed responsiveness, power, torque and smoothness. To produce an engine with such impressive performance and fuel economy clearly reflects our commitment to be class-leading in fuel economy around the world."

Prices

Prices for the new Ford EcoSport will be announced closer to its market launch.

Competition

The Ford EcoSport will be launched on the Indian market first, and that market alone will bring a number of competitors for the SUV, but the biggest competitor will be found on the European market: the Mercedes B-Class. The Mercedes B-Class->ke2751 has the advantage of being offered with a wide range of engines, including a new four-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection and turbocharging and a new diesel engine. This range of engines will produce between 122 HP and 156 HP, putting the 118 HP of the EcoSport to shame. Let's hope that where the EcoSport lacks in power, it will make up for in fuel efficiency.