2017 White Ford Ecosport V4

The Ford Ecosport is a new addition to the American brand’s increasingly international line-up. Built in several countries around the world, this little crossover comes from India for the GCC market. The standard engine is a simple 1.5-litre 4-cylinder mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox, and it only comes in front-wheel-drive form with SUV-like ground clearance.

Measuring only a little more than a sub-compact hatchback in length, the Ecosport seats five, with a small boot behind the sideways-opening tailgate. Standard features on the base Ambiente trim include a 2-way manual-adjustable driver’s seat, 60:40-split folding rear seat, electric power steering, front-disc rear-drum brakes, 4-speaker CD/MP3 stereo, power windows, front floor mats, adjustable steering column, rear wiper, rear fog lamp, cooled glovebox, basic keyless entry, and 15-inch steel wheels with covers or optional 16-inch alloys.

The mid-range Trend trim adds a 4-way manual-adjustable driver’s seat, additional storage spaces, 6-speaker stereo, voice-activated SYNC multimedia system, USB port, leatherette-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, one-touch function on power windows, standard 16-inch alloys, body-colour trim, light-coloured grille, front fog lamps, roof rack, and cruise control with the optional automatic transmission.

The top Titanium model additionally gets a lumbar-adjustable driver’s seat with armrest, standard automatic gearbox, unique 16-inch alloys, Bluetooth, extra map lights, climate control, rain-sensing front wipers, auto headlights, smart keyless entry with starter button, extra power-point in the boot, rear floor mats, rear parking sensors, chrome grille, silver roof rack, trip computer, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a seatbelt warning for front passengers, with optional features such as leather upholstery and soft-touch door armrests.

All versions get dual front airbags, ABS, stability control and engine immobiliser, with the Trend and Titanium further getting side and curtain airbags as well as a perimeter alarm. Optional accessories include roof-rack crossbars, spare wheel cover, metal pedal covers, carpeted floor mats, rear spoiler, mud guards and more.