Ford India, the domestic division of American auto maker, seems all set to introduce its much awaited, compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), EcoSport in the auto market. Since the launch of this model is on the cards of auto maker from a long time now, a lot of speculations are taking rounds of its launch date in the Indian auto market. However, this time, the senior officials of Ford has hinted that the EcoSport will sparkle on the Indian roads somewhere in the initial days of April 2013.
Confirming launch of the upcoming model, a latest tweet of the Ford India stated, “We are all set for the big announcement very soon. So hold onto this space for more!”
The news stating launch of EcoSport becomes even stronger as several authorised dealers of Ford India have already started accepting the bookings for the upcoming model. Reportedly, interested buyers can book the model by paying a token amount of Rs. 40000 to Rs. 60000 to the dealers. When asked about the launch of EcoSport in the country, dealers said that it will witness the daylight at the onset of fiscal 2014, which clearly indicates its launch in April 2013. Reportedly, Ford India has already started providing training to its employees at its workshops in order to carry the after sales operations of the upcoming model.
Coming to under-the-hood figures of 2013 EcoSport, industry experts believe that the model will be offered in both petrol and diesel guises, which will help the auto maker in catering to demands of a large number of buyers. The diesel version is expected to come equipped with a 1.5 litre performance oriented power mill, which will have brilliant outputs. On the other hand, the petrol variant will be incorporated with an option of either a much hyped 1.0 litre EcoBoost turbocharged engine or 1.5 litre normally aspirated petrol power house. As per sources, the 1.0 litre EcoBoost engine will be limited for the flagship variants, whereas the entry level models will come assimilated with the 1.5 litre petrol engine.
It is expected that the model will be brought to the Indian market in different phases. Reportedly, in the initial stages, EcoSport will be offered in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Bangalore. Post these cities, the model will be taken to the remaining part of the country. With the launch of a new flagship model, Ford Motors seems in full swing to create a stir in the entry level compact SUV segment of the Indian auto market, which is currently dominated by the Mahindra Quanto and Renault Duster.
