Ford in Europe has officially revealed its new EcoSport Active variant after initial images were leaked online.

The Blue Oval brand says the EcoSport Active offers “more rugged styling and enhanced versatility” compared with the standard model.

As we saw in the leaked images, the Active treatment includes additional body cladding as well as a gloss-black finish for the roof and side-mirror caps. There’s also a fresh alloy wheel design and "Active" exterior badging.

In addition, Ford has confirmed the EcoSport Active features an (unspecified) increase in ride height compared with the standard version of the small crossover. Inside, the company has added an “A” logo to the seats, while the windows appear to have been tinted, too.

“Customers tell us they love how EcoSport’s bold styling, practical interior and versatility fits into their busy lives, so we’re excited to enhance the SUV with an Active version that delivers even more of those qualities,” said Roelant de Waard, vice-president for marketing, sales and service at Ford of Europe.

“The EcoSport Active will be a new addition to the Active series that offers extra capability and rugged style for customers who want to take their outdoor adventures to the next level.”

So, will the EcoSport Active be offered in South Africa? Well, all Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa will tell us is that the newcomer is "not confirmed" for a local introduction. Still, it’s by no means inconceivable considering SA receives its 1,0-litre EcoBoost derivatives from the same Craiova plant in Romania that will produce this new variant...

Original article from Car