Ford has expanded its EcoSport line-up with the addition of the 1.5 Ambiente Auto, which ups the ante in the entry-level compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) segment while delivering exceptional value for money for the South African consumer.
The smooth-shifting six-speed automatic gearbox is paired with a lively 91kW 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. It is ideally suited to active individuals and families where the convenience of an automatic makes it perfect for busy city driving, while delivering comfortable and hassle-free open-road cruising.
With the addition of the new model, a total of seven EcoSport derivatives are available, starting off with the 1.5 Ambiente manual. The charming three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol engine available in the EcoSport Ambiente is renowned for its eager power delivery and sprightly performance, delivering 91kW and 151Nm of torque for impressive overall drivability and low fuel consumption. A 1.5-litre TDCi turbodiesel model is also available in Ambiente trim, producing 74kW and 205Nm, linked to a six-speed manual gearbox.
The multiple award-winning 1.0 EcoBoost engine, which produces 92kW and 170Nm, powers the Trend and Titanium models, which can be specified with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
Another area where the EcoSport punches well above its weight is in the number of airbags fitted, as all Ambiente models feature no less than six airbags (dual front, side and curtain airbags), while the Trend and Titanium also incorporate a driver’s knee airbag.
Multimedia functionality remains a stand-out feature of the EcoSport, as the EcoSport Ambiente incorporates Ford’s SYNC® with Bluetooth and Voice Control, as well as two USB ports, six speakers and a 4.2-inch screen.
The Trend models boast a more sophisticated version of the SYNC® infotainment system with a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, while the Titanium’s SYNC®3 features an 8-inch display as well as embedded turn-by-turn navigation.
Active driving safety features across the board include ABS brakes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control (TC), as well as Roll Stability Control (RSC) in the EcoBoost range, that adjusts engine torque and braking to help drivers maintain control. The 1.0 EcoBoost-powered models are also equipped with Hill Launch Assist (HLA) that makes pulling off on steep inclines easier, along with Ford’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
All EcoSport models come standard with Ford Protect which includes a four-year/60 000km service plan, three-year unlimited distance roadside assistance and four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty. This is complemented by a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km. For more information contact your nearest Ford dealer.
