Upgraded EcoSport from summer

Styling and driving improvements to Ford's EcoSport small SUV will be rolled out in mid-summer, writes Brian Byrne.

The most visible change is the option not to have the rear door-mounted spare wheel, and instead have a tyre re-inflation kit. In this format, the rear door hinging has been adjusted to make partial opening easier.

There are material and trim improvements on the inside, and more sound-deadening.

The diesel engines have been improved to the latest EU emissions regulations, and gain a 5hp performance.

The car also looks better on the road, thanks to a slightly reduced ride height.