Ford EcoSport Facelift Spotted Testing In India Again

The Ford EcoSport facelift is all set to make it's India debut later this month, on October 29, 2017. The updated EcoSport will comes with a host of new features along with considerable cosmetic changes. Following the sighting of a couple of test mules, EcoSport facelift was again spotted testing with partial camouflage. One of them was very similar to the model showcased last year at the 2016 LA Auto Show, while the other one gets different alloy wheels. The India-spec model will also get a new 1.5-litre petrol engine from the company's new engine line-up, which will also be exported to other markets. The Images we shared before this came from CarAndBike reader Murlidhar Bhat, who had managed to snap two test mules of the 2017 Ford EcoSport in Bangalore, Karnataka. (Read: 2017 Ford EcoSport Facelift: All You Need To Know )

Also Read: 2017 Ford EcoSport Titanium S Variant Spotted Ahead Of Launch

2017 Ford EcoSport facelift spotted in Pune

Also Read: The US-spec Ford EcoSport SUV will also be made in India

While the overall silhouette remains the same, the subcompact SUV will see a plethora of changes to the styling and interior. The comprehensively updated Ford EcoSport will see major changes to the styling of the subcompact SUV. There is an all-new bolder and wider grille in place along with tweaked headlamps. The subcompact SUV also gets new alloy wheels while the rear witnesses minimal changes largely to keep the model fresh. Interestingly, if you are planning to get the EcoSport now, Ford is offering pre-GST benefits on its range.

Also Read: Ford Ecosport Facelift Spotted Sans Camouflage For The First Time

2017 Ford EcoSport facelift's biggest rival is the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza

Also Read: 2017 Ford EcoSport Facelift Interior Uncovered In Latest Spy Shots2017

Inside however, the 2018 Ford EcoSport facelift will see comprehensive changes. The model is all set to get a touchscreen unit that will come equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and Ford's new SYNC 3 infotainment system. Reports also suggest that much like the US-spec version, the Indian EcoSport facelift will also miss out on the CD-player as part of the upgrades.

Also Read: Ford EcoSport Facelift Spotted Again Ahead Of Festive Season Launch

In addition, the dashboard will see changes over the outgoing model including horizontal AC vents, new centre console as well as a new three-spoke steering wheel. While the US version will miss out on the externally mounted spare wheel, the Indian version will continue to get the same adding to the butch look of the small SUV.

Also Read: Ford EcoSport Minor Update Coming; Major Model Facelift Only By Diwali

The EcoSport Facelift will get new front styling and feature upgrades

The Ford EcoSport has been facing tough competition from the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza and the facelifted avatar is expected to induce a fresh lease of life in the model. More so, since a price cut and adding new features over the past year have done little to deter customers from booking the Brezza. For perspective, Ford sells around 4000 units of the EcoSport every month, while the Vitara Brezza clocks over 10,000 units per month.

Also Read: 2017 Ford EcoSport Facelift Spied Testing In India

That said, the 2018 Ford EcoSport facelift will continue to be manufactured at the company's facility in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. In fact, the US-spec version will also be manufactured and exported from India. Meanwhile, production will shift from the Indian plant to the one in Romania for the European market later this year.

2017 Ford EcoSport showcased at the LA Auto Show

With respect to engine options, the 2018 Ford EcoSport will continue to use the 1-litre EcoBoost petrol, 1.5-litre Ti-VCT petrol and 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engines. Transmission options will include the 5-speed manual and 6-speed DCT automatic. The EcoSport was recently updated with dual airbags on all trims and six airbags on the top variants, so expect the same to feature on the new version as well.

Image Source: India.com/auto