Ford EcoSport officially launched in Malaysia, two variants from RM93k



Ford has now officially launched their all-new EcoSport compact SUV at the Symphony Lake Suite KLCC. The EcoSport was already available for test drive since their pre-launch activities a couple of weeks back, but now we get to know the finalized specifications and price.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

As previously mooted, the EcoSport is powered by a petrol 1.5-litre engine and comes in two variants, Trend and Titanium with RM 11,000 difference in price separating them apart.

QUICK FACTS

Name Ford EcoSport
Segment B-Segment SUV
Engine 1,498cc 4-cylinder Ti-VCT
Transmission 6-speed PowerShift dual-clutch gearbox
Max Power 108 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Max Torque 142 Nm @ 4,400 rpm
Price RM 92,888.00 (Trend) RM 103,888.00 (Titanium)

 

The EcoSport is creating a new segment in Malaysia, there are no other manufacturers currently offering a B-segment SUV in their lineup. As we all know the B-segment now is dominated by the usual Japanese sedans and a few hatchbacks so it’s refreshing to see a new niche been introduced here.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

EXTERIOR
The exterior of the EcoSport looks like a proper SUV, complete with a tailgate-mounted spare tyre but the EcoSport is actually a front wheel drive vehicle. Even though the EcoSport is based on the Fiesta, the dimensions have grown in every direction.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

 

The wheelbase has been stretched to 2,519 mm which is 32 mm longer than the Fiesta’s and the total length is now 4,273 mm including the spare tyre. The raised ride height with 200 mm ground clearance contributes to the loftiness of the EcoSport which now stands at 1,675 mm tall, and it is also wider than the Fiesta, at 1,765 mm wide. It’s reassuring to know that the EcoSport has a water wading capability for up to 550 mm, so driving through large pools of water shouldn’t be a problem for this compact SUV.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

To differentiate between the Trend and Titanium variants from the outside, on the more expensive Titanium the roof rails are finished in silver, and the grille and foglamps surround are trimmed in chrome; but on the Trend the roof rails are in black while the grille is finished in silver. The side mirrors have integrated turn indicators as well as puddle lights on both variants. Both are fitted with 16-inch wheels wrapped in high-profile 205/60 R16 tyres but each variant has its own unique design.

INTERIOR
Most of the switchgear in the EcoSport are derived from the Fiesta. The familiar steering wheel comes with controls for the audio system and leather-wrapped in the Titanium. There are no shift paddles behind the steering wheel but there is a rocker switch on the gearknob to shift up or down the gears.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

The dashboard layout mirrors the Fiesta but the aircond vents are noticeably larger in the EcoSport. A Dot Matrix screen is still used to display the infotainment system which supports Bluetooth connectivity and voice command with Ford’s SYNC interface.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

Titanium will get keyless entry with push start button, Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC), auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather seats, adjustable lumbar support for the driver’s seat, driver’s seat armrest, and an extra 12V power outlet at the rear.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

There’s ample space for all occupants in the EcoSport and storage spaces are plenty around the cabin. The 362 litre boot is accessed by a side mounted tailgate door instead of a upwards-opening hatch and the 60/40 splitting rear seats can be folded down to increase the load to 705 litres. A powered sunroof is included too if you opt for the Titanium spec.

PERFORMANCE
Only the 1.5-litre Ti-VCT 4-cylinder engine is offered in the Malaysian-spec, Thai-made EcoSport. It produces 108 hp at 6,300 rpm and 142 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. Fuel economy is rated at 6.5 l/100 km.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

A 6-speed PowerShift dual-clutch gearbox sends the power to the front wheels enabling the EcoSport to travel from 0-100 km/h in 13.4 seconds while the top speed is 175 km/h.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

WHAT ELSE?
The EcoSport is equipped with Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with EBD, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Passive Anti Theft Alarm System (EPATS) with Immobilizer, and ISOFIX mounts as standard.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

Additional safety equipment fitted to the Titanium spec apart from the dual front airbags that is already available in the Trend spec, there’s also side and curtain airbags, and driver’s knee airbag that brings the total airbag count to seven.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

Buyers can choose from Midnight Sky or Frozen White for both variants, while Candy Red is exclusive to the Trend variant, Mars Red and Winning Blue is offered only on the Titanium variant. The EcoSport Trend is priced at RM 92,888 and the EcoSport Titanium is priced at RM 103,888. The EcoSport comes with Ford’s Extended Service Plan (ESP) that provides three-year or 60,000 km free maintenance and free replacement for selected wear-and tear items.

Ford EcoSport launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

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