All-new Ford EcoSport for Europe

Ford today debuted the European production version of the all-new EcoSport at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, adding to its growing SUV line-up in Europe as part of the company’s product-led transformation. Built on Ford’s global B-segment platform, the compact EcoSport will deliver the agility and fuel efficiency of a small family car with the flexibility, spaciousness, high driving position, and go anywhere appeal of an SUV. EcoSport joins the recently-launched Ford Kuga, as Ford builds on its SUV heritage with plans to sell one million SUVs in Europe over the next six years. Ford also plans to bring to Europe the next generation Ford Edge, a larger and more premium utility vehicle popular in the U.S. and other markets. The all-new EcoSport will offer a range of efficient powertrains, including the 125PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine — International Engine of the Year — a 110PS 1.5-litre petrol engine, and a 90PS 1.5-litre diesel engine expected to deliver class-leading fuel efficiency. “All-new Ford EcoSport for Europe is extremely economical, flexible and stylish, and will – alongside the new B-MAX compact multi-activity vehicle, the best-selling Fiesta and all-new Tourneo Courier – complete a comprehensive small car line-up for Europe,” said Nick FitzGerald, chief programme engineer, EcoSport. EcoSport is the first Ford global model to be developed entirely in South America. Originally introduced in 2003, the groundbreaking first model established a new segment and has gone on to sell more than 700,000 units in the region. The new model was launched in Brazil in September last year and is expected to help drive further growth for Ford in both India and China after being introduced in those markets later this year. The all-new EcoSport will be the second SUV to be launched in Ford’s expanding European range when it goes on sale later this year; following the recently-launched Ford Kuga. Ford also plans to bring to Europe the next generation Ford Edge, a larger and more premium utility vehicle popular in the U.S. and other markets. Ford also will begin production of Explorer seven-seat SUV in Russia later this year. The EcoSport’s distinctive silhouette has been shaped to enhance fuel efficiency. The compact SUV’s large front grille, short bonnet and raked front pillars, deliver a sporty and contemporary feel, and angular headlamps reinforce the modern look. EcoSport will also be equipped with SYNC, Ford’s voice-activated in-car connectivity system. As a first in Europe, the Ford SYNC AppLink system will offer drivers voice control of mobile apps on the move, including the leading music streaming service Spotify. Also, Ford SYNC with Emergency Assistance will directly connect the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident, in the correct language for the region. EcoSport also will offer a comprehensive package of driver assistance technologies including Electronic Stability Program and Hill Launch Assist. “The EcoSport has already achieved iconic status in South America,” added FitzGerald. “EcoSport for Europe builds on that success and brings this attractive car to the European consumers.” From: motoring-news