This vehicle joins Ford’s Active lineup along with the Fiesta, Focus and Focus.
Full-length images of the EcoSportActive leaked to the Internet about a week ago. However, Ford has not changed its previously announced debut date. The pseudo-rugged version is also available for the Blue Oval’s smallest crossover. The EcoSport Active joins the Focus Active, Fiesta Active and the Active (only available in certain markets) to try to revive the little CUV.
Similar to the Active models, this new entry is designed to “support outdoor adventures as well as active lifestyles”. It has plastic cladding around its wheel arches, just like most manufacturers do with these “tougher” versions. Some notable hardware upgrades include a stronger suspension and a limited slip differential.
The 17-inch wheels make it stand out and are distinguished visually by the black accents and eco-leather interior. The Active is the highest-end model in the range and comes with many features, including cruise control, an eight-inch touchscreen and heated and electronic mirrors. It also has LED daytime running lights, tinted and front and back windows.
The EcoSport Active was designed for Europe and will be manufactured at Ford’s Craiova plant, Romania. It will also include the older versions of the EcoSport Active and the newer Puma/ Puma ST crossover. It will be available locally with a turbocharged EcoBoost engine of 1.0-liter in the 125-horsepower configuration, and a six speed manual transmission.
The price of the Puma is EUR21,100 in Romania. This is quite a steep price considering that you could get a well-equipped Puma for this amount. However, there is a launch discount which brings it down to EUR15.250.