Iconoclastic, Exemplary And Boisterous - All At The Same Time

With the title and the ratings given, it would appear as if I do no give priority to good looks in a car because when compared to its competitors, the Ford Ecosport does not tick the 'handsome' checkbox. But, all the charm of good looks becomes secondary once you're behind the wheels and driving. Ford's engineers have provided the car with such an outstanding ride quality and engine that it does not feel like you are sitting in a cute looking car that's basically a fiesta on stilts. Turn on the ignition and press the throttle, and you'll realise that the aggressive front face of the car is there for a reason. And it has all reason to be because it comes with a 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine which is by far and unquestionably the best small engine in the world. The way it delivers the power to the wheels is phenomenal. Just stating that the car is powerful will be an understatement. It produces 100PS from the 1.5-litre engine and enough torque to leave a KTM RC390 to shame, i.e. 205NM. It might start sounding like I am a bit bigoted towards the Ecosport but there is a reason for me to be so attached to my car. I admit that the car still lacks a touchscreen, rear aircon vents, a rear reading lamp and that is exactly why I could not give it 5 stars. To these shortcomings, the car makes up with a bass heavy and impulsive sound system along with a small and sporty steering wheel. This might be superfluous because of what the car weighs but, it's so frugal in terms of both maintenance and mileage that you feel like taking it anywhere and everywhere, without having to worry about your money. The comfort levels are good too. It's much better than the enervating ride of a Creta and it extenuates the possible side-effects of long distance driving. The tall seats with an unconventional headrest was a risk taken by Ford but it hits the bulls eye as these are one of the most comfortable seats I've seen in a car. Basically, Ford has to be given credit for making a huge car that doesn't feel too big to drive and fitting it with an engine that surpasses the expectations of a Golf GTi. By now, I've probably started to sound like a fanboy but, I have no regrets in being one as this car is meant for true gearheads. The Brezza offers best value for money, the Creta offers the best premium that has to be maintained at an iPhone level of costs, but the Ford remains the elephant in the room as it is the oldest in the segment and still has the best engine. In short, a Hyundai is like your girlfriend that you have to keep on spending money on and still, is never satisfied, the Maruti is like your best friend that understands your financial crunches and lets you take it to a low-cost 'dhabha' for a treat but the Ford is like your spouse, it is simply worth spending your money on because it's ready to be with you at all times and on all terrains. This car glides on the road and can be taken to some rough terrains (given its ground clearance of 200 mm). Yes, it's not as off-road ready as the Duster but, it sure is much more practical. You can take it to your board meetings and have your boss admiring it or you can take it to a party with your friends where you'll be the DJ because of its sound system. You won't need an impetuous car that can't go fast and is evanescent. What you need is an elegant looking car that offers a benevolent ride and wears a disdain. But, when somebody disturbs its image, it can be what you call boisterous. (I cannot post the photo of the car because it is off with my brother in Mumbai and nobody wants to see such a beautiful car in the way he maintains it. Sorry)