Ford Ecosport 2015-2021 1.5 Ti VCT MT Trend BSIV

Ecosport 2015-2021 1.5 Ti VCT MT Trend BSIV Review

Ford Ecosport 1.5 Ti VCT MT Trend is one among the several variants in this model series that has received minor updates with this facelift. In this trim, the occupants can find aspects like a rear seat with 60:40 split folding function, steering wheel mounted with audio controls, tachometer, and height adjustment facility to driver's seat. Other attributes that also improve the comfort levels include all four power windows, illuminated passenger vanity mirror, accessory socket, and Bluetooth connectivity to name a few. Interestingly, now it even gets anti lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution as standard security components. Under the hood, there is a 1.5-litre petrol engine incorporated that can generate 110.4bhp power and 140Nm torque output. This mill is paired with a five speed manual transmission gear box that further boosts its overall performance on roads.

Exteriors:

This compact SUV comes with a captivating body design, which will certainly steal the hearts of many. The frontage is very attractive with aggressively designed head lamp cluster, a stylish grille and a bumper. The latter is further integrated with a large air dam, which has horizontal slats and garnished with silver. The upper grille in Mid-Grey color looks quite bold. The company's logo is affixed on it that brings more style and elegance. The side profile has body colored door handles and outside rear view mirrors. Meanwhile, the flared up wheel arches are fitted with a set of 15 inch steel rims that are further equipped with 195/65 R15 sized tubeless tyres. The rear end design is also good with stylish tail lamps and a bumper with black colored claddings. Also, there is a tail gate affixed with spare wheel, and a wide windscreen that includes a wiper with washing facility.

Interiors:

The mid range trim has an attractive cabin that is spacious as well. It is decorated with charcoal black and warm neutral grey color scheme. It accommodates five people with much ease and even provides them with sufficient leg, shoulder and head room. There is a 346 litre boot provided, which can be further extended to 705 litres by folding the rear seat. Its well cushioned seats are covered with premium fabric upholstery. An accessory socket is available at front, while the rear package tray is both retractable and removable as well. Aside from these, there is also under passenger seat storage, day and night inside rear view mirror, illuminated passengers vanity mirror, driver's foot rest, and load compartment light too.

Engine and Performance:

It is powered by a 1.5-litre engine that has the displacement capacity of 1499cc. It has the ability to make a peak power of 110.4bhp at 6300rpm and 140Nm torque at 4400rpm. This twin independent variable camshaft timing motor is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox, which transmits the power through front wheels. When driven on the highways, it gives a fuel economy of about 15.85 Kmpl and it comes down to nearly 11 Kmpl within the city.

Braking and Handling:

The manufacturer has ensured the best of braking mechanism with this model series. It has fitted the front wheels with ventilated disc brakes, and the rear ones with reliable drum brakes. ABS and EBD, both these further improve performance besides adding to the security quotient. The suspension system comprise of an independent McPherson strut with coil spring and anti roll bar. The rear one is assembled with a semi-independent twist beam that is accompanied by twin gas and oil filled shock absorbers. An electronic power steering column is also on the offer with Pull Drift Compensation technology. This system is another reason for its good control and handling on different road conditions.

Comfort Features:

A number of aspects are packed in this lineup in order to provide maximum comfort. An air conditioner is offered with a heater and this unit has to be operated manually. It has a sophisticated music player with Bluetooth connectivity, a USB socket, Aux-In port and AM/FM Radio tuner as well. There are speakers at front and rear that enhances the listening experience. The switches of this audio unit are mounted on steering wheel, which makes it quite easy for the driver to operate it. Apart from all these, it has sunvisors, reclining rear seat, height adjustable rear headrests, power adjustable external wing mirrors with turn indicators, and front as well as rear courtesy lights, which altogether raises the level of comfort.

Safety Features:

This trim is loaded with some safety features that increases passenger protection. The significant among these is the anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, which prevents it from skidding especially during sudden braking. The immobilizer system is useful to avoid any unauthorized entry into the vehicle. In addition to these, it also comes with emergency brake hazard warning, remote central locking with flip key, and locking wheel nut for spare wheel that safeguards this compact SUV.

Pros:

1. Sporty external appearance.
2. Decent cabin design.

Cons:

1. Protective aspects are very few.
2. Comfort level can be further improved.