The refreshed version of the current-generation Ford EcoSport has finally arrived in the Philippine market. The subcompact crossover was officially launched last night before camera-wielding social-media influencers at SMX Convention Center in SM Aura. The American automaker is apparently convinced that young buyers get their car-shopping advice from Facebook, Instagram and YouTube personalities.

Anyway.

The new EcoSport now has a fresh face. This is immediately obvious in the new grille design. The hood and the headlamps have likewise been tweaked. Gone is the slit above the gaping grille where the Ford emblem used to rest. The brand badge now goes in the center of the humongous air vent.

The biggest story here is the introduction of the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder turbo engine that now powers the range-topping Titanium variant with 123hp and 170Nm. The universally praised little motor is paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission which we presume is better than the last gearbox.

The two lower trims (Trend and Ambiente), meanwhile, are equipped with an upgraded 1.5-liter Ti-VCT four-cylinder engine that boasts improved numbers (121hp and 150Nm versus the previous 108hp and 142Nm). This power unit is mated to either a five-speed stick shift or the above-mentioned new 6AT.

The Titanium variant you see here has HID projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights, front and rear fog lamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, 17-inch alloy wheels, silver-finish roof rails, leather seats, push-button engine start, automatic temperature control, front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, traction control, stability control, hill-start assist, hill descent control, rearview camera, park assist, and a power sunroof.

Inside, the EcoSport Titanium has a 4.2-inch display screen for the instrument panel, eight-inch capacitive touchscreen, Sync 3 connectivity with AppLink and voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, seven audio speakers, front and rear 12V power outlets, and satellite navigation.

The Titanium variant is offered in all six available exterior colors:

• Absolute Black;
• Ingot Silver;
• Crystal White;
• Ruby Red;
• Canyon Ridge; and
• Blue Lightning.

Both Canyon Ridge and Blue Lightning are exclusive to the top variant.

Now, for the prices of the new EcoSport:

• 1.0L Titanium AT – P1,168,000;
• 1.5L Trend AT – P1,028,000;
• 1.5L Trend MT – P968,000; and
• 1.5L Ambiente MT – P918,000.

The new EcoSport hits nationwide showrooms today. Ford Philippines is also holding a test-drive event at Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City from August 31 to September 2. Check out the car in the metal if you’re considering it for your next ride. Don’t take influencers’ word for it. Sorry not sorry.