Ford EcoSport Brings Developing World Transportation to Europe

Crossovers are continuing to down-size, as is evidenced by the new Ford EcoSport unveiled today at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The EcoSport will join the recently-launched Kuga (Escape) once it goes on sale later this year in Europe. And though no announcement was made on the possibility of it heading to America, continued growth of the compact crossover segment will surely warrant a consideration by Ford.

Nonetheless, the compact and agile SUV offers space, modern design, and smart technology in an attractive package to the European market, and will be available with a choice of three powerplants: a 1.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine, a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine. The 1.0-liter EcoBoost provides 123 hp while the 1.5-liter offers 108 hp. Lastly, the diesel sports 94 hp while delivering “class-leading fuel efficiency” according to Ford.

SEE ALSO: 2013 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW COVERAGE

The new EcoSport is built on Ford’s global B-segment platform and will contribute to Ford’s plan to sell one-million SUVs in Europe over the next six years. The EcoSport is the First global model to be developed entirely in South America. It was first introduced in 2003 and has gone on to sell over 700,000 units in the region. The new EcoSport has already been launched in Brazil last September and will also be heading to both India and China later this year.

The redesign has given the compact crossover a new shape to improve aerodynamics and enhance fuel efficiency. A larger front grille, shorter hood, and raked front pillars gives it a sporty and contemporary style, while angular headlights gives it a modern look. The EcoSport will naturally be equipped with SYNC, the American automaker’s voice-activated infotainment system. As a first in Europe, the Ford SYNC AppLink system will give drivers voice control of mobile apps, such as Spotify, while on the go.

The American automaker also announced that it plans to bring the next-generation Ford Edge to Europe, offering a larger, and more premium utility vehicle that has proved popular in the U.S. and other markets worldwide.

With the compact crossover segment continuing to grow, with models like the Nissan Juke and soon-to-arrive Honda Fit-based crossover, don’t be surprised if Ford eventually offers the EcoSport in America.