Anti-climax at the Sao Paulo Auto Show 2016.
The Brazilian media are calling it an "anti-climax at Ford's booth" as there was no 2017 Ford EcoSport at the Sao Paulo Auto Show, which kicked off on 8th November.
Besides new looks, the 2017 EcoSport will be strapped with a new 1.5-liter three-cylinder 'Dragon' gasoline engine. Pictured is a rendering.
A source revealed to CarPlace Brazil that the restyled EcoSport "was not ready in time" for the auto show. The Brazilian media feel that its absence was a missed opportunity for the Blue Oval - the display could have countered the unveil of the Hyundai Creta (facelift) which premiered at the show, and the Honda HR-V which has been gaining traction in the Brazilian market since its launch early last year.
ArraySince March, Ford has been testing the EcoSport facelift in Brazilian conditions. Concurrently the Fiesta-based crossover is on test in the USA, in China and in Europe. The car hurriedly received updates last year in Europe after the launch edition faced rejection - the 2016 model had a cleaner rear fascia, revised ride and handling, more power, better sound proofing, new interior trim and upgraded equipment and infotainment, but it wasn't a facelift.
A revised dashboard with SYNC3 infotainment system will come in place on the 2017 Ford EcoSport (pictured is a rendering).
The first major facelift will bring updates in the form of a new dashboard with SYNC3 infotainment, new steering wheel, all-wheel drive variants, a new 1.5-liter 'Dragon' gasoline engine, and different looks. A media report said Ford would extend the car's availability to the United States with the facelift, and that the units would be shipped from India.
Also See: Dual airbags now standard on the Ford EcoSport Ambiente
As for Sao Paulo Auto Show visitors, in place of the EcoSport, there is a Ka 'Trail' edition wearing a slightly more adventurous dress.
[Source - CarPlace]
