Let's dive into the 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi, a compact SUV that made waves with its practicality and fuel efficiency. This article will provide a detailed overview of its specifications, performance, and overall appeal. Whether you're a prospective buyer or simply curious, we've got you covered.

Overview of the 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi

The 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi is a subcompact SUV that combines the practicality of a larger vehicle with the agility of a smaller car. It's particularly well-suited for urban environments, offering easy maneuverability and parking. The 'TDCi' designation indicates that it's powered by a turbo-diesel engine, specifically Ford's 1.5-liter Duratorq unit. This engine is known for its fuel efficiency and adequate power delivery, making it a popular choice for those looking to minimize running costs without sacrificing performance.

The EcoSport's design is characterized by its distinctive styling, featuring a high-riding stance and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, giving it a rugged appearance. Inside, the cabin is functional and well-equipped, with a decent amount of space for passengers and cargo, considering its compact dimensions. The 2015 model year brought several enhancements over previous versions, including improved interior materials and updated technology features.

One of the key selling points of the 2015 EcoSport 1.5 TDCi is its fuel economy. The diesel engine provides excellent mileage, making it an ideal choice for daily commutes and long-distance journeys. Additionally, the car's compact size and light weight contribute to its nimble handling and ease of driving in congested city conditions. The EcoSport also offers a range of safety features, including airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control, ensuring a safe and secure driving experience.

Overall, the 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi is a well-rounded package that offers a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It's a great option for those looking for a compact SUV that's easy to live with and economical to run. Its distinctive styling and well-equipped cabin further add to its appeal, making it a popular choice in its segment.

Detailed Specifications

Understanding the 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi requires a deep dive into its specifications. Let's break down the key details:

Engine

The heart of the EcoSport 1.5 TDCi is its 1.5-liter Duratorq diesel engine. This engine is designed for fuel efficiency and reliability. Key specs include:

• Type: 1.5L Duratorq TDCi Diesel
• Displacement: 1498 cc
• Maximum Power: 90 bhp (66 kW) at 3750 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 204 Nm at 2000-2750 rpm
• Turbocharger: Yes, with intercooler
• Fuel Injection System: Common Rail Direct Injection

This engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The turbocharger ensures that the engine delivers adequate torque even at lower RPMs, which is beneficial for quick acceleration and overtaking.

Transmission

The 2015 EcoSport 1.5 TDCi typically comes with a 5-speed manual transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth and precise shifts, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. Key features include:

• Type: 5-speed manual
• Gear Ratios: Optimized for fuel efficiency and performance
• Clutch: Single dry plate
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

The manual transmission allows for greater driver control and engagement, while the optimized gear ratios help to maximize fuel economy and performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration further enhances fuel efficiency and provides adequate traction in most driving conditions.

Dimensions and Weight

The EcoSport's compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Here are the key measurements:

• Length: 3999 mm
• Width: 1765 mm
• Height: 1708 mm
• Wheelbase: 2519 mm
• Ground Clearance: Approximately 200 mm
• Kerb Weight: Approximately 1250 kg

These dimensions contribute to the EcoSport's agility and ease of parking. The high ground clearance is particularly useful for navigating rough roads and speed bumps, adding to its practicality as a compact SUV.

Suspension, Brakes, and Tyres

The suspension, brakes, and tires play a crucial role in the EcoSport's handling and safety. Key details include:

• Front Suspension: Independent McPherson strut with coil springs
• Rear Suspension: Twist beam with coil springs
• Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Standard
• Tyre Size: Typically 205/60 R16
• Wheels: Alloy wheels or steel wheels, depending on the trim level

The suspension setup provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. The disc brakes at the front offer good stopping power, while the ABS ensures that the wheels don't lock up during hard braking, maintaining steering control. The tire size is well-suited for the vehicle's weight and size, providing adequate grip and stability.

Fuel Efficiency and Performance

One of the main draws of the 2015 EcoSport 1.5 TDCi is its fuel efficiency. Key figures include:

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 52 liters
• Fuel Efficiency (Claimed): Approximately 22.27 kmpl (kilometers per liter) under standard test conditions. Note that real-world fuel efficiency may vary depending on driving conditions and habits.
• Top Speed: Approximately 160-170 km/h
• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): Approximately 13-14 seconds

The excellent fuel efficiency makes the EcoSport 1.5 TDCi an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. While the acceleration figures may not be the quickest, the engine provides adequate power for most driving situations.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi, you'll find a functional and well-equipped cabin designed to provide comfort and convenience. While it's a compact SUV, Ford has made good use of the available space to offer a pleasant driving experience.

Cabin Space and Comfort

The EcoSport's cabin is designed to accommodate five passengers comfortably. While it may feel a bit snug for three adults in the rear seat on longer journeys, it's generally adequate for shorter trips. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. Key features include:

• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
• Front Seats: Adjustable for height and lumbar support (depending on trim level)
• Rear Seats: Split-folding (60:40) for added cargo space
• Headroom and Legroom: Adequate for most adults, though taller passengers may find the rear headroom slightly limited

The split-folding rear seats are a practical feature, allowing you to increase the cargo space when needed. The cabin is also equipped with various storage compartments, including door pockets, a glove box, and a center console, providing ample space for storing personal items.

Dashboard and Controls

The dashboard of the 2015 EcoSport 1.5 TDCi is ergonomically designed, with all the essential controls within easy reach of the driver. The instrument cluster is clear and easy to read, providing essential information such as speed, fuel level, and engine temperature. Key features include:

• Instrument Cluster: Analog speedometer and tachometer with a digital information display
• Steering Wheel: Tilt-adjustable with mounted audio controls (depending on trim level)
• Center Console: Houses the infotainment system, climate control, and other essential controls
• Materials: Hard plastics are used extensively, but the overall fit and finish are decent for the price point

The steering wheel-mounted audio controls are a convenient feature, allowing you to adjust the volume and change tracks without taking your hands off the wheel. The climate control system is effective at maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature, even in hot or cold weather.

Infotainment System

The infotainment system in the 2015 EcoSport 1.5 TDCi varies depending on the trim level. Higher-end models come with a touchscreen display, while lower-end models have a basic audio system. Key features include:

• Touchscreen Display: Available on higher-end models, providing access to navigation, audio, and other features
• Audio System: CD player, FM/AM radio, and USB/AUX input
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows you to connect your smartphone for hands-free calling and audio streaming
• Ford SYNC: Ford's voice-activated infotainment system (available on some models)

The touchscreen display is user-friendly and responsive, making it easy to navigate the various menus and features. The Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stay connected while on the go, while the Ford SYNC system provides voice control for added convenience.

Other Notable Features

In addition to the above, the 2015 EcoSport 1.5 TDCi also comes with a range of other features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These include:

• Power Windows and Mirrors: Standard on most models
• Remote Central Locking: Allows you to lock and unlock the doors from a distance
• Automatic Climate Control: Maintains a constant cabin temperature (available on higher-end models)
• Rear Parking Sensors: Help you to park safely and easily
• Rain-Sensing Wipers: Automatically adjust the wiper speed based on the amount of rainfall

These features add to the overall appeal of the EcoSport, making it a practical and well-equipped compact SUV.

Driving Experience

The 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi offers a driving experience that is well-suited for urban environments and occasional highway trips. Its compact size and nimble handling make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while its fuel-efficient engine provides adequate power for most driving situations.

Handling and Ride Quality

The EcoSport's handling is one of its strong points. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to navigate city streets and parking lots. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride even on bumpy roads. Key aspects include:

• Steering: Light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces
• Suspension: Well-tuned to provide a comfortable ride on various road surfaces
• Body Roll: Minimal body roll in corners, providing a stable and confident feel
• Ground Clearance: High ground clearance allows you to tackle speed bumps and rough roads with ease

The EcoSport's compact dimensions and light weight contribute to its nimble handling. It feels planted and stable on the road, inspiring confidence in the driver. The high ground clearance is particularly useful for navigating urban obstacles and occasional off-road excursions.

Engine Performance

The 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. While it may not be the quickest engine in its class, it offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Key characteristics include:

• Power Delivery: Smooth and linear, with adequate torque available at low RPMs
• Turbo Lag: Minimal turbo lag, providing quick acceleration when needed
• Refinement: The engine can be a bit noisy at higher RPMs, but it's generally well-refined
• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel

The engine's smooth power delivery and minimal turbo lag make it easy to drive in city traffic. It provides enough grunt for overtaking and merging onto highways, while its excellent fuel efficiency helps to keep running costs down.

Gearbox and Clutch

The 5-speed manual gearbox is smooth and precise, making it easy to shift gears. The clutch is light and easy to modulate, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. Key features include:

• Gear Shifts: Smooth and precise, with well-defined gates
• Clutch Pedal: Light and easy to modulate, reducing driver fatigue
• Gear Ratios: Optimized for fuel efficiency and performance

The smooth gearbox and light clutch make the EcoSport easy to drive, even in heavy traffic. The optimized gear ratios help to maximize fuel economy and performance, providing a good balance of both.

Overall Driving Impression

Overall, the 2015 Ford EcoSport 1.5 TDCi offers a pleasant and practical driving experience. Its compact size, nimble handling, and fuel-efficient engine make it an ideal choice for urban environments. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it's a well-rounded package that offers a good blend of comfort, convenience, and economy.