Ford EcoSport: Out with the old, in with the new

MANILA, Philippines — When I got a chance to drive the new Ford EcoSport, I could not help but compare it with its predecessor. Although I like both, I can’t help but rave about the changes I immediately noticed when I got behind the wheel of the new EcoSport, which was launched by Ford in August last year.

Here are a few changes that made me fall in love even more with the new and refreshed model.

Better drive

For starters, the new EcoSport boasts an improved driving performance with the new 1.0L EcoBoost engine with auto start/stop technology and a more powerful 1.5L TiVCT engine with a totally different six-speed automatic transmission for a smoother and more fuel-efficient drive.  The auto start/stop technology is a great fuel-saving technology as it makes the EcoSport stop when idling at traffic lights. And with the traffic situation in the Philippines, we know how this technology is helping drivers save fuel.

I like that these engines give the Ecosport more driving power and make for an even more fuel-efficient drive —  giving more bang for my buck. That was something I readily noticed as I drove the new EcoSport though the traffic-laden streets of Metro Manila.

The new powertrain is something I really appreciate in the new EcoSport as the handling and acceleration definitely improved compared to the previous model. The driving experience was smoother, faster, and was definitely full of power.

High-tech

The new EcoSport is also laden with technological innovations that make it a smart SUV. As a techie, I find it really exciting to see a lot of great tech features in the new EcoSport, such as the Sync 3 with navigation which allowed me to safely drive while staying connected on my mobile.

View from within: The cockpit gives warnings when backing up.

The Sync 3 entertainment and vehicle information system lets you search for music, make phone calls, and navigate with your voice, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. The Sync 3 also offers a better and more quality audio experience inside the EcoSport.

I also like the rear-view camera with park assist which is a trusty guide in reverse parking especially in malls and tight spots.

Look good, feel good

The new EcoSport also features major improvements in exterior and interior design.

It’s definitely a standout on the road. It has a compact size, it looks trendy, but not too flashy. It also has high ground clearance which is perfect for uneven roads, potholes, and bumps, which are plentiful around the city. I didn’t have to worry about driving on these — mindful of the EcoSport’s height.

I also like the premium feel that the leather dashboard offers for the Titanium variant, including the power sunroof which allowed me to enjoy the natural light while driving during the day.

The new EcoSport also makes the drive more comfortable in the cabin with reduced noise that you normally hear around you (cars honking, sound of engines or sound of rain, among others) in the streets.

The techie in me also loves the multi-color touchscreen with a redesigned interface and intuitive smartphone-like actions.

I must add: If you are worried about storage because of its size? Don’t be. The new EcoSport has added more storage spaces for things you need to bring with you on your daily drive. There’s plenty of room for your friends inside the car since your favorite coffee, cell phone, tablet, umbrella and water bottle are safety secured inside the EcoSport’s storage hubs. Its trunk is so spacious you can store a big piece of luggage for your next weekend roadtrip.