The much anticipated compact SUV from Ford is all set to be launched in China on 19th March 2013. Ford is expecting big volumes from the Chinese market for the EcoSport, as the manufacturer is introducing the mini SUV in a booming segment. Like the Indians, Chinese buyers are also keen on riding high on SUVs and Ford is hitting the right spot in China with the EcoSport, as there are very few rivals to compete with the mini SUV. The China spec EcoSport is being manufactured by the Chang’an-Ford joint venture at the Chongqing plant.
For the Chinese market, Ford is offering two engine options for the EcoSport, a 1.5-litre petrol motor producing a maximum power output of 110 BHP with 140 Nm of peak torque, mated to an option of a 5-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed automatic PowerShift transmission. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine is also on offer with 125 BHP of power and 170 Nm of torque, mated to only a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Coming to the pricing, the Chinese market will get the EcoSport with a price range from 94,800 yuan (Rs. 8.29 lakhs) to 1,29,800 yuan (Rs. 11.35 lakhs). The Indian buyers are still waiting to get their hands on the baby SUV, which is expected to be launched within a few weeks time. In India, Ford will offer an option of the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The EcoSport will see heavy localization, hence the delay in launch. Expect Ford to price the sub 4-metre SUV aggressively.
Source – AutoHome
