The Ford EcoSport is a best-selling model in Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, and Mexico, where roads are mostly small, terrain is uneven, and high power is not a priority. The Middle East, however, is a complete opposite of that market. So why is the Ford EcoSport even here? Mostly because models like Renault Duster have sold so well. It's the 'Cheap N Cheerful' segment that Ford wants to exploit. We took it for a drive, and here are our impressions:

Style

Ford EcoSport Rear Styling

The best feature of the Ford EcoSport is its style. It is less boxy compared to the Duster. The Titanium version we drove comes with:

Front and rear fog lamps
Silver roof rails
Chrome style upper grille
High mount center stop lamp
Towing loops in the rear
Funky design 16-inch alloys

The exterior color, however, is not to my liking, though I did receive a "Wooow you got a Yellow Jeep" remark from a female drive-through attendant. Not sure if that was genuine or sarcasm.

Build Quality

Ford EcoSport Build Quality

My biggest issue with the Ford EcoSport is its build quality, which is below par compared with similar peers in its segment. If you notice the front door to be slightly open in the picture above, this is due to poor build quality. You literally need to bang the door shut; otherwise, it stays slightly open, which is quite annoying. I recommend upgrading the build quality as the first improvement for the next EcoSport.

Interior Material and Finishing

Ford EcoSport Interior Material

There is not much to expect here, as it is the economy segment after all. The seats are the only redeeming feature, showcasing a nice sporty design and stitching. The Titanium trim features leather seats (although they don't really feel like leather). Other than that, expect hard plastics pretty much everywhere, which is typical due to the low price tag.

Interior Space and Visibility

Ford EcoSport Interior Space

The interior space is adequate, fitting 5 adults comfortably. Visibility is quite bearable as well. The boot space is actually more than the Renault Duster (see specs comparison). However, if you have significant luggage, you'll need to fold the seats down (the seats come with a 60:40 split). The interior space could have been enhanced with some clever ergonomic design; there are areas where a glove box could have existed, yet it's just left there with no purpose. Additionally, the cup holders are positioned too low, requiring careful placement of beverages.

Interior Technology and Features

Ford EcoSport Interior Technology

Unlike the top-spec Duster, the Titanium EcoSport comes equipped with:

6 airbags
Automatic AC
6 speakers
Cruise control

The infotainment system is powered by Microsoft, and audio controls on the steering are somewhat unintuitive. The Titanium also features iPod and USB functionality. The biggest issue is with the seat controls, which are manual and quite unwieldy to operate. It’s best to set them once and use them for the duration of your ownership!

Drive Experience

Ford EcoSport Drive Experience

The EcoSport was originally designed for the South American markets of Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, and Mexico. Now manufactured in India, the EcoSport still possesses driving qualities suited for these markets. Markets like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have large highways that prefer bigger and stronger engines. The EcoSport comes with a rather weak 1.5-liter engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, similar to the Duster, producing 110 PS and 142 Nm of torque. Coupled with higher-than-normal ground clearance, it creates significant body roll, struggling even in urban driving situations. I vividly recall the EcoSport at 5,000 RPM barely crossing 80 km/h. Thus, there was no point in checking 0-100 km acceleration or 100-0 braking. With that in mind, what is the purpose of having a Sports Mode? The EcoSport has a Sport gear, but it is essentially useless. The car feels underpowered and needs an engine upgrade to at least a 2.0, similar to the Hyundai Tucson, which we reviewed last year. There are two redeeming features: first, the higher ground clearance aids in navigating uneven terrain and gravel roads, comparable to the Duster; secondly, the cruise control is beneficial for highway driving, allowing you to rest your foot off the pedal.

Verdict

Starting at 60,000 AED (roughly $16,350 USD), the EcoSport offers slightly better interior features than the Duster, but is also priced higher. Both vehicles are underpowered and not particularly enjoyable to drive. Another good option to consider is the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 AWD, which boasts more power at a competitive price. Consider the EcoSport only if you want a cheap, nice-looking car for short trips in the city.