Modified Ford EcoSport unveiled at SEMA 2018

Ford’s little EcoSport isn’t exactly the first vehicle that comes to mind when you think of the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show (SEMA), but with the growing popularity of subcompact SUVs, it’s no surprise that this cute-ute has made an appearance at the aftermarket event.

This interesting example was created by Tucci Hot Rods. While the custom shop is known for its street custom builds, it apparently knows how to churn out mean-looking vehicles that are meant to venture away from paved roads. This build was based on the 4WD EcoSport SES (yes, such a variant exists), and the goal was to give the EcoSport a “go-anywhere, do-anything treatment.”

Up front, it has a modified fascia with an improved approach angle. Following the shape of the lower intake is a custom tubular front bumper with an integrated Warn Axon 35-S Powersport winch. The sides sport custom Dom Tucci Design 3D-printed fender flares that are reminiscent of the ones you see on D1 drift cars, but with an off-road flavor. This widebody kit’s job is to hide the broad fifteen52 Turbomac HD alloy wheels shod with chunky 255/65 R16 Maxxis Bravo Series AT tires. If you think those wheels look familiar, they’re the same design as the rollers on Ken Block’s Hoonitruck.

At the back, the EcoSport features a tubular rear bumper and a rear diffuser. Rigid Industries Lighting provided the amber foglights, rock lights, high-mounted Radiance D-XL lights, and a Chase brake light. This being an outdoor vehicle, Tucci Hot Rods also installed a pair of Yakima HighRoad premium upright bike mounts. The interior is largely untouched, save for a few Ford accessories like the all-weather floor mats and cargo liner.

This all-wheel-drive EcoSport comes with a 2.0-liter gasoline mill mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Powertrain upgrades include a K&N air filter and a Borla custom Ford Performance exhaust system. Chassis upgrades are limited to a set of ISC Suspension N1 coilovers.

SEMA is a venue for custom builders to let their imaginations run wild, and Tucci Hot Rods definitely delivered with its spectacular version of the humble EcoSport. What do you think of this build? Let us know in the comments.