There’s a long queue for the base EcoSport 1.5-litre petrol with a manual gearbox. We finally get our hands on it after months of waiting.
At Rs 5.8 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it is the cheapest, most basic EcoSport you can buy. But actually you can’t. Ford dealers have put a hold on petrol EcoSport bookings and the queue in some cases stretches to six months. It seems Ford can’t make enough to meet the demand for this version so, if you want one, be prepared to wait.
What’s all the fuss about? Look at the equipment on this car though and you’ll be hesitant to call it a base version – this Ambiente spec has remote locking, power steering, air-conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and aux-in ports, power mirrors and front power windows and that makes it really good value for money.
As for how it drives, the base
Ford EcoSport Petrol variant works really well as a city car. The 1.5-litre petrol motor (the same as in the Fiesta) has healthy low-rev responses, so you can leave it in the higher gears and potter about all day. The clutch is light, the gearshift is slick and, like most Fords, this EcoSport is fun to drive. In fact, the good ride and fun-handling balance is matched by nothing else in this price range.