The Ford EcoSport has been in the Indian market since 2012 and the first significant update for the compact crossover, since its launch, has been unveiled at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. It will make its debut in the North American market in 2018 and is expected to arrive in the Indian market in late 2017.

Up front, the redesigned fascia of the EcoSport noticeably takes its cues from the Ford Escape. The changes include the Ford’s hexagonal grille, revised headlamps and redesigned bumper. There are new triangular fog lamps and as well as subtle creases on the hood. A faux skid plate has also been added as a part of the update.

The facelifted EcoSport retains the character side profile of the compact crossover. The new alloy designs suit the car pretty well. The rear mounted spare wheel is absent in the US-spec. The silver-finished skid plate on the bumper and the roof rails at the top add to the SUV-ish character.

The cabin gets a new instrument cluster, dashboard and steering wheel. The centre console now incorporates an eight-inch touchscreen which integrates Ford’s new Sync 3 infotainment system. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration compatibility with seamless smartphone connectivity.

The US spec EcoSport will be offered with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine or 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. Both engines will only get the option of a six-speed automatic transmission. In India, however, we’ll also get the 1.5-litre petrol engine and the 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.

The sales of the facelifted Ford EcoSport will commence in the American market by 2018. But is expected to go on sale in India by next year. The manufacturing and export of the new EcoSport will continue at the Ford’s Chennai facility. The EcoSport faces competition from the Renault Duster and the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza.

[source;carwale]