Soon after bookings for updated EcoSport commenced in Europe, spyshots of the car testing in India have emerged. First consignment is expected to leave from India shortly.

2016 Ford EcoSport facelift for Europe incorporates quite a few enhancements based on feedback received from the developed international markets. The car spied is an export-spec model so it’s difficult to deduce how many of the changes will filter into India-spec facelift.

While most Indian customers love the crossover’s tailgate-mounted spare wheel for it renders a tough character, a good number of Europeans wanted Ford to do away with it. So, with the facelift, the company will offer an option of having a different tailgate minus spare wheel in Europe.

The new tailgate in question has its license plate enclosure relocated to where the spare wheel used to be. It remains to be seen whether Ford India will also offer a similar option to the model sold in the domestic market or not. Another change which is unlikely to be offered here will be the tweaked suspension system which has resulted in reduction of ground clearance by 10 mm.

It remains to be seen if the option of spare wheel-less tailgate will be offered in India or not.

Inside, 2016 EcoSport gets a revised steering wheel, Winter Pack (heater windshield, steering wheel and seats) and part leather upholstery.

All the engines are now upgraded to Euro6 emission norms. The 1.5-litre diesel motor gets a marginal hike in power of 5 PS while the 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbo petrol and 1.5-litre Ti-VCT naturally aspirated petrol motor continue with any changes in outputs.

Since Hyundai Creta and Maruti S-Cross are at the verge of launching in India, Ford needs to launch 2016 EcoSport facelift in the country in the festive season to stay in contention. More power to the diesel engine is imperative since its rivals have clear advantage in that department.

Source:– AutocarIndia.com