Extremely Long Term యాజమాన్యం Review - 1,80,000 km - ఫోర్డ్ Ecospo...

Extremely Long Term Ownership Review - 1,80,000 km - Ford Ecospo...

Bought Ford Ecosport in October 2013, when it was newly launched, Diesel manual variant, this SUV has been my family's primary mover since. This gem of a vehicle has done 1,80,000 km (the majority of that on Mumbai traffic) and still going strong with no annoying rattles, no breakdowns, no major maintenance. Below are my comments PROS 1.) Build quality - you have to give this badge of honour to Ford Ecosport. Even after 1,80,000 on the ODO, this vehicle is running smoothly without any rattles, almost all of my friends who sit in the vehicle are in shock when they find out the ODO reading. Also, some people might not like the rear-mounted spare tyre, but it has helped the SUV escape without any scratches during my initial days as a new driver, where I have sometimes touched pillars in my building's parking area. 2.) Handling - It is one of the best handling vehicles I have ever ridden and I have been riding cars since 2008. The steering is so accurate that as a new driver, I was driving this vehicle with ease. The stiff suspension and compact size make it a very confidence-inspiring vehicle and thus the best seat to sit in an Ecosport are the drivers. 3.) Lower than expected maintenance cost - Ford not being a popular manufacturer in India back in 2013, and a starting a new segment, it was all experimental, much too pleasant revelations, the maintenance cost is surprisingly low. 4.) Design - I love the macho looks, that urbane and chic vibe, giving it a modern look. The tailgate design is uncommon a very practical with a flat boot and not too high boot lip. The best part about the boot door design is I don't have to step back, and then bend to go under a traditional door as it opens, coz Ford Ecosports boot door opens sideways. 5.) Features - It gave push start button in second top variant even back in 2013 upon its launch, for comparison, the Hyundai Venue offers to push start button only in its top variant and we are in 2019. Speed-sensing door lock, one-touch up-down power windows, voice command, steering mounted audio controls, rear wiper, rear adjustable headrests, follow me home headlamps, sunglass holder, auto ac and many more were offered even in the second top model and that too back in 2013. 6.) Safety - its offering option of six airbags since 2013, that just tells you about the safety focus of ford, to put things into perspective, juts launched KIA Seltos, which is a segment above, and costs 30-40% more, doesn't even get the option of 6 airbags. 7.) Regularly updated - Again shows the commitment of the manufacturers to provide continued support and service 8.) Workmanship - Personal experience, 6 years and 1,80,000 kms with the vehicle and not one single out of the ordinary service required. CONS ( I'm too much in love with this vehicle to list any cons but I am going to be subjective) 1.) Ride quality - The ride quality is not plush, you will feel the bumps and irregularities on the road a lot more than other cars, but I believe its to do with the stiff suspension setup, which has its own advantages 2.) Cost - It comes at a slight premium above its competitors, however having said that you are getting good bang for your buck. 3.) Rear seat space - Not ideal for 3 passengers, but hey, its hardly ever ideal of three passengers in the back in a compact SUV/Car.  That's all folks, if you are in the market looking for a compact SUV, definitely test drive this one. 'Even if you don't like the looks, go for a test drive' this is what my friend had told me in 2013, and I booked the vehicle right after the test drive, just saying.