Priced from £14,245, the EcoSport is now available for the first time without a rear-mounted spare wheel, which now becomes a no-cost option. Models specified without the spare wheel come with a tyre repair kit instead as well as a revised rear swing-gate design to allow easier access to the boot with partial opening. 

Interior upgrades include part leather seats and chrome detailing plus the option of a Winter Pack – featuring heated windscreen, heated mirrors and heated front seats.

All EcoSport models are equipped with Ford’s SYNC voice-controlled connectivity system feature a 4-inch colour display in the centre console.

The new EcoSport also brings enhanced ride and handling, thanks to revisions to the springs, dampers, rear torsion beam, and has also been engineered for improved engine response. In addition, the Electronic Stability Control and power steering systems also have been specifically tuned for European roads.

Engine line-up sees a 5bhp improvement for the 1.5-litre TDCi to 94bhp, with 64.2mpg official combined and 115g/km CO2. The 124bhp 1.0-litre EcoBoost delivers 52.3mpg and 125g/km CO2, while the 1.5-litre Ti-VCT engine delivers 44.8mpg and 149g/km CO2. All engines now meet Euro Stage 6 emissions standards.

Further technology that will be available later this year for the EcoSport for the first time includes satellite navigation and the rear view camera.