Ford Ecosport spotted testing in Chennai

We need not be telling you that Sports Utility Vehicles are a rage in India, so much so, that everything from the rugged Mahindra Bolero to the plush Audi Q7 are setting the sales charts on fire, literally. Even Renault's Duster that jump-started the Compact SUV segment in India a month back, has garnered more than 10000 bookings. One company which would definitely not be happy knowing all this is Ford. The Chennai-based American manufacturer knows that they are losing out on thousands of potential customers every month they don't have the Ecosport on sale. Unveiled at the 2012 Auto Expo in New Delhi, the Ecosport vowed the press and the public alike with its concept-like design elements and has gone on to become one of the most anticipated launches in recent history. We admit, we weren't left alone and were smitten by it too, when we saw the initial set of images.

Though Ford has confirmed that the Ecosport would be launched only by the first quarter of 2013, this car that was spotted testing near the busy OMR IT Highway in Chennai gives us good hopes that things are on track. Though the swirl camouflage and dark tinted glasses didn't reveal much, the test car's butch shape and compact dimensions gave us a good glimpse on what to expect from the Ecosport and what not. All pointers tend to indicate that the production version wouldn't be much different than the model showcased at the Auto Expo, barring the LED Headlights. And that will make the Ecosport one of the best looking Sports Utility Vehicles around. While the compact dimensions will prove to be a boon in the city, the high ground clearance will be a huge relief on out pothole-ridden roads.

The Ecosport would be launched with three different engine options - a 1.5-liter TiVCT petrol engine, a 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine and the award-winning 1.0-liter Ecoboost petrol engine. While the first two engines are already available in the new Fiesta, the Ecoboost engine that recently won the International Engine of the Year award, is making its debut on the Ecosport. Ride and handling, a traditional Ford forte, can be expected to rival the best in the segment as well. With all aspects but one covered, the Ecosport looks set to be a smash hit. And that left-out aspect is the 'pricing'. If Ford decides to price the Ecosport with a premium like they did with the new Fiesta, the market might give it a thumbs down. On the other hand, if they play the value card like they did with the Figo, the Ecosport might be a game-changer for Ford in India.

So, what direction is Ford going to take with the Ecosport? Wait and watch.