THE Ford EcoSport may be a global model but it faces a tough task in the mini SUV scramble in this part of the world.

It is distinct in its inflated chubby style, some may say cheekily endearing, but it still has a mountain to climb to flex its muscles with favourites in the UK and Europe.

While the EcoSport and rivals manage to pack a quart into a pint pot, the Blue Oval version doesn't come across quite as convincing in the modernity and quality stakes, as say, the Nissan Juke or the Renault Captur.

Based on the Fiesta, designed in Brazil and built in India, this is the second generation EcoSport. The first model was not previously available in Europe.

That's of no consequence. More important is the fact that the interior of the model doesn't quite make the grade.

It seems robust, yes, but it feels a little yesterday. There's wall-to-wall hard plastics whereas the cabins of competitors have a much softer, touchy feely texture.

The EcoSport's saving grace in the test car is that plucky award-winning 1.0-litre 123ps EcoBoost engine which earns the mini crossover a few gold stars.

It can sound a little boisterous under pressure, but the decibel levels are quite acceptable and diminish anyway once in cruise mode.

The proven three-pot engine feels lively and flexible and steering is light and breezy - but devoid almost of any feedback. But that tends to be a trade-off in this sector.

However, in other respects, the EcoSport delivers power energetically and smoothly while the five-speed transmission is equally accommodating, with clean upshifting and downshifting through the gate.

The little world car may seem a bit standard issue on the inside for Europeans but no doubt the tough furnishings will come good in the durability stakes. And the strong-as-iron ambience won't harm the mini SUV's street cred.

The air of resilience and sturdiness is cranked up with strong, straightforward pedal actions.

The ride can be jostley over exposed grates and mini sink holes, but it is no worse than most in this segment. Make for less ravaged surfaces and the EcoSport is quite civilised.

There's almost a Disney-esqueness about mini crossovers on a small footprint, with a tall body sat on the chassis which endows them with a rough, tough persona. The Ford version is the same and oozes a feisty attitude.

The EcoSport may not match the bling of the interiors of some rivals but performance levels are quite respectable for a vehicle in this segment, achieving the 0-62mph in an acceptable 12.7 seconds.

Emissions too are decent at 125g/km while average fuel returns are quoted at 53.3mpg. During a lot of mixed driving this was closer to 45mpg.

The tall architecture affords good headroom for driver and occupants all-round and the boot at 375 litres is a decent size. This can almost triple if you lower the rear seats - though these do not fold completely flat.

Some will find the side-hinged rear door a little irksome because it can restrict access to the boot if someone parks close to the rear bumper. Plus, the door hinges on the near side which means you have to step around the opened door. It's best to make a mental note to park the car up to the kerb edge on the driver's side if anticipating loading the boot and problem is solved.

EcoSport models seem pricey but all come in generous Titanium or Titanium X spec for the UK.

This car was specced in the Titanium trim costing £15,995 which includes 16-inch alloys, climate control, keylesss entry and start/stop function, electric windows, electrically-operated mirrors, trip computer, multifunction steering wheel, hill start assist, silver roof rails.

For those choosing Titanium X spec, which includes leather seats, cruise control and 17-inch alloys add another £1,000.