Used Ford EcoSport 2017 - 2021: Should You Consider Buying One?

The Ford EcoSport was India’s introduction to sub 4 metre SUVs. From its launch in 2013 till its discontinuation in 2022, it has always been an able competitor in the segment it pioneered. The EcoSport looked great, was fun to drive, offered great safety and the right mix of features, all of which made it a great all around car for the family.

Now no longer on sale, those looking for a Ford EcoSport will have to go through the used car market. Despite its discontinuation, EcoSport owners haven’t faced any issues regarding service and spare parts, as they continue to be readily available. Keeping that in mind, a Ford EcoSport first sold between 2017 and 2021 can be a steal for many those looking to buy a used SUV.

Ford EcoSport Generations and Facelifts

Between 2013 till 2022, the Ford Ecosport evolved over time, but in only a single generation in India. The EcoSport was introduced in India with three engine options, a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo diesel and the 1.0-litre turbo inline 3 EcoBoost engine. 

In 2017, Ford launched the EcoSport facelift, discontinuing the 1.5-liter four-cylinder Sigma petrol engine, with the 1.5-litre three-cylinder from the new gen ‘Dragon’ family. The 1.5-litre diesel continued with refinements. The 2017 facelift model featured a redesigned exterior and interior, along with a bump in cabin quality and features. 

Later, the Ecosport S model reintroduced the EcoBoost to the SUV’s engine lineup in 2018. This was followed by the Thunder Edition and SE in 2019 and 2021, respectively, with them packing a mix of powertrain, features and cosmetic updates. 

Used Ford EcoSport 2017 - 2021: Should You Consider Buying One?

Exterior and Interior

The EcoSport was a global product for Ford and while it was a crossover, it portrayed many design qualities of an SUV. The tyre mounted on the bootlid, the boxy rear and the high ground clearance gave it an identity of its own. Till date, the Ford EcoSport continues to look different compared to all its other rivals and the 2017 update to its design keeps it fresh.

The 2017 EcoSport also saw a big update to its interior with a new touchscreen UI infotainment taking centre stage, along with revisions to the instrument cluster and dashboard. The seat upholstery also became better and with this update, the EcoSport’s interior truly offered a great overall experience. For those who prioritise good interior design and while staying on a budget, a second hand Ford EcoSport is a great option.

Key Features

The Ford Sync3 infotainment system offered on the 2017 - 2021 EcoSport is the highlight feature of the SUV. Additionally, automatic climate control, rain sensing wipers, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and steering mounted audio controls are some of the other key features. Externally, the EcoSport features some great alloy wheel designs, with it even sporting 17 inch alloy wheels in the S variant.

Safety and Reliability

Ford cars are known for their robust passenger cabin and advanced safety features. Depending on the variant, the 2017-2021 Ford EcoSport was specced with six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, ESP and ISOFIX anchorage points for a child seat.

The EcoSport’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine is known to be a workhorse and has proven to be reliable over time. Those who prefer petrol can opt for the 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol. However, if you are opting for the Ecosport S with the Ecoboost engine, it is advised to perform a professional PDI service, and check the car’s service records and maintenance history.

Used Ford EcoSport 2017 - 2021: Engine, Transmission and Other Specifications

Why a Used Ford EcoSport 2017 - 2021 is a Great Investment

A pre owned Ford EcoSport from model years 2017 to 2021 hold their value really well. Today, a used EcoSport is priced between ₹ 5.5 lakh to ₹ 7.5 lakh depending on mileage and condition. 

Great Looks

The Ford EcoSport has always had its great looks going for itself and it's a great motivating factor when buying a used car. The paint quality of the EcoSport has proven to age better over time and cars that have been kept well over the years will look close to new. The SUV’s design also stands out because it doesn’t follow a preset formula, and instead marries crossover and SUV design.

Diesel Engine Performance

A great engine is necessary for any good car and the Ford EcoSport is no exception. The 1.5 litre diesel engine in the EcoSport is a great all-around performer. It’s punchy in its power delivery and the short gearing of the 5 speed manual transmission squeezes the best performance out of it. It is also frugal with a rated fuel efficiency of 23 kmpl.

SUV Utility

Ford has also given the EcoSport the utility of an SUV. Its high set driving position gives a commanding view of the road and is preferred by a vast majority of drivers. The second row seats also flip down to expand the standard 352 litre of boot space Lastly, the EcoSport also has a ground clearance of 200 mm, which is comparable to larger SUVs.

Driving Dynamics

The EcoSport is a great handling car, considering its SUV shape and high ground clearance. The magic lies in the suspension tuning. The pre-facelift EcoSport was known for being almost too harsh for its stiff suspension. However, with the 2017 facelift, Ford got the balance right and the EcoSport continued to feel great in the bends while also ably cushioning the impacts of potholes, making it a great driver’s car.

Ecoboost Engine

The Ecoboost engine was introduced by Ford on the S variant in 2018, and is preferred by hardcore enthusiasts. Its characteristics are similar to the diesel engine, but packs 124 hp. Furthermore, the Ecoboost was available with a 6 speed manual transmission and its short gearing too complimented the urgent, yet linear, power delivery of the turbocharged petrol.

Conclusion

Following the significant facelift, the Ford EcoSport from 2017-2021 improved on its solid foundations as a sub-compact SUV. With the major update, and highly refined petrol and diesel engines, the EcoSport built upon its strengths and improved on the shortcomings of the previous model. 

While Ford is no longer selling cars in India, second hand Ford EcoSport models have continued to perform well in the used car market. The EcoSport holds its value well compared to its key rivals, and is the best selling used SUV in India in 2024.