We give the Ford EcoSport the full road test treatment.
Published on Jul 30, 2013 04:28:00 PM
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Fords have always been entertaining to drive and the EcoSport is no exception. It starts with the steering, which is light and yet full of feel and connectedness to the road. It’s incredibly direct with little slack, and is in fact, one of the best electric steering systems we have experienced in this price bracket. Add to this a noticeable lack of pitching and rolling and lots of grip, and you have a car that makes driving hard really enjoyable. In the EcoBoost version, the ride is remarkably pliant, allowing only the sharper bumps to thud through. The suspension is really silent, thanks in part to the hydraulic bump stops and Ford’s additional sound insulation that keeps noise levels in the cabin down to impressive levels.
The diesel is sprung rather stiffly to compensate for the weight of the heavier engine. This results in sharp edges and bigger bumps thumping through uncomfortably. The front suspension just doesn’t seem to have enough travel to isolate passengers. Also on the diesel, there’s a bit more pitching, especially at the rear, as you go over long-wave undulations. This isn’t particularly uncomfortable, but it reminds you that the EcoSport, with its small wheelbase, doesn’t tackle rough roads like a full size SUV.
In the city, the EcoSport isn’t as easy to drive as its size suggests. This is mainly down to the limited visibility from the driver’s seat. You really have to teach yourself to use the combination of parking sensors and mirrors to reverse. However, the EcoSport’s compact dimensions are an absolute boon when you have to park.
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