of motor manufacturing heavyweights say they are either developing or will shortly have on offer in response to a growing awareness by motorists almost everywhere that the days of 8-cylinder growling beasts of machines are pretty well done. And with the cost of the vehicles starting in the under R200k range, the economy label applies in other respects as well. As we say, this one looks like it's a winning formula.
'The little engine that can'
The smallest engine in its class, Ford's 1?l EcoBoost engine is big on power, torque and refinement. Producing 92kW of power with a peak torque of 170Nm, the quiet and smooth-running engine delivers power and performance that rivals traditional 1.6?l petrol engines. The 1?l EcoBoost engine has won the coveted title of International Engine of the Year for the last two years running. With 25% fewer moving parts, the three-cylinder EcoBoost is able to deliver superior fuel economy and lower emissions. On a combined cycle run the innovative powerplant ensures minimal consumption of just 5.7l/100km. To be fair, we can neither verify nor contradict those figures as, on our recent drive in Durban in this vehicle, the consumption reading wasn't zeroed out
Ford's vision
Based on Ford's global B-segment platform, the EcoSport, says Ford, 'is a stylish choice with enough space for five adults. The SUV's blend of practicality and smart connectivity will attract young, adventurous customers
who not only live life to the fullest but also love exploring the world at large'. The EcoSport's high driving position, rugged capability, superior fuel economy, easy manoeuvrability, and convenient features make it the right vehicle for both city streets and adventurous pursuits, says Ford, and we would not disagree. The well-rounded EcoSport is just as comfortable wading through flooded areas as it is entertaining the driver through hands-free phone calls and music selection. 'Stylish, robust and dynamic, the all-new EcoSport is sure to appeal to a new generation of customers,' says Ford Marketing Manger Gavin Golightly. 'It is set to be a game-changer for us, solidifying Ford's volume position in South Africa.' Giving customers the power of choice, the EcoSport will be available in eight colours, three trim levels, three engine options, and two transmission variants.
before we took the wheel, though the consumption figure in question did drop steadily during our drive, indicating that Ford's claims in terms of fuel consumption appear to be in the right ballpark, at the least. Ford's EcoBoost technology, which holds more than 125 patents, combines direct fuel injection, turbocharging and variable valve timing to enable a downsized engine to gain fuel economy by up to 20% over larger engines with no loss of performance. And, indeed, that claim is definitely accurate. There is a proviso, however. That is that the vehicle's rev range for each gear is relatively limited, up to top (fifth) gear. But, once one has adapted to that fact, and once cruising on the open road, you would never know you were driving a mere 1?-engined l vehicle based on performance alone, with no significant drop-off of speed or power in hills, as you might otherwise expect. 'It requires a shift in mind-sets,' explains Golightly. 'Traditionally, we have equated performance with larger
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