FORD ECOSPORT: Ford's smallest SUV is spacious and practical but lacks style and comfort
PROS:
CONS: Costs a lot more than similar SUVs but comes with fewer features; noisy ride at high speeds; low fuel economy
VERDICT: The EcoSport is expensive for what you get and we recommend looking at other similar models instead. The EcoSport is also on its way out of the Ford lineup
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
Ford Maverick, Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Seltos and the Nissan Kicks
What’s interesting about the EcoSport?
- It tows more than over sub-compact SUVs on the market (2,000 pounds!)
- All EcoSports now come with all-wheel drive and a non-turbo four-cylinder engine, rather than offering a front-wheel-drive or turbocharged three-cylinder engine
- While the EcoSport is only slightly larger than a hatchback, the spaciousness of the interior and cargo is impressive
- Overall, body roll is relatively low, but the handling is rough
How about the prices and trims?
Which one do we recommend?
Since the EcoSport is expensive for what you get, we'd only recommend checking out SE, the mid-tier trim. Look elsewhere if you want additional amenities such as a moonroof, ten-speaker sound system, or additional safety features at a reasonable price.
What about its availability?
Due to changes in where Ford builds the EcoSport, this is likely the final year it will be available. If your heart is set on an EcoSport, now is the time to visit a local dealer.
What about its performance and handling?
- Compared to last year, the four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive is a significant improvement over the turbocharged three-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive
- The ride isn't too bumpy no matter where you sit
- Handling is nearly nonexistent, so don't expect a sporty experience despite the SUVs' name
- Be prepared to press on the brake with a lot of force to stop
- Low fuel efficiency by today's standard
The irony of the EcoSport lies in its name: this subcompact ute is neither eco-friendly nor does it offer a sporty driving experience. According to Ford's website, this model averages 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. For a four-cylinder engine, that's far too low, in our opinion. Typically, smaller SUVs provide smooth handling while larger models offer truck-like driving experiences. The EcoSport provides neither: the ride is relatively smooth at low speeds but becomes noisy and cumbersome as speed increases. The SES trim promises a sport-tuned suspension, but that didn't help much. Getting from 0-60 mph took longer than 11 seconds, making it exceptionally slow compared to similar new models.
Some drivers may enjoy the challenge of driving a vehicle such as this, but we don't think most people would.
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
One of EcoSport's best features is its spaciousness. Considering it's only a few inches larger than spacious sedans, it still offers significant room in the front, the back, and the cargo area. The cabin embodies practicality in every sense of the word, so don't expect anything flashy or luxurious. Unfortunately, the materials look and feel cheap, which will make you scratch your head and wonder why the price tag is so high. The SES and Titanium trims help with this a little bit thanks to leather seats, a moonroof, and a heated steering wheel, but it's not worth paying extra.
Other issues in the cabin are several blind spots due to clunky design, and storage compartments seem to be on the smaller side. The backseats come raised, so getting in and out may get clumsy for some. Long drives could be a challenge since the seats offer little to no lumbar support.
Infotainment and connectivity
Drivers have their choice between two infotainment systems: Sync or Sync 3. Sync comes standard on S, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, six speakers, and a 4.2-inch display. The other trims feature Sync 3 which gets displayed on an 8-inch screen and includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Besides the bigger screen, having access to smartphone connectivity makes all the difference for the average driver. SES also adds voice control and Titanium features a 10-speaker sound system.
LIKES: The Sync 3 makes all the difference for anyone with a smartphone and the Wi-Fi hotspot is a great standard feature
DISLIKES: The voice-activated assistant isn't as reactive as we'd like; the one on your smartphone is better
How about the technology and features?
Practical features can still look stylish, but the EcoSport doesn't deliver on that hope. The S and SE aren't compelling if you're looking for a fresh, small SUV. Most of the new features are standard on similar models in its class. However, SES and Titanium offer high-end elements such as additional speakers, voice-activated navigation, and a moonroof.
LIKES: The trims are varied enough so that you can pick the features you want
DISLIKES: The S is too barebones for its price tag and very few packages to customize the EcoSport
Quick Quirks: It takes some time to get used to Sync and Sync 3, so prepare yourself for a learning curve |
Some additional features:
- All trims include a remote keyless feature, a driver's left footrest, and smart-charging
USB ports
- The EcoSport comes with an SOS post-crash alert system, but safety technology drivers have come to expect such as blind-spot monitoring or rear cross-traffic alert are only available on the SES and Titanium trims
- Two packages are available for all trims: a Trailer Tow Preparation and the Equipment Group 400A (10-speaker sound system, voice-activated navigation, improved upholstery, and 17-inch stylized wheels)
How’s the exterior?
From the side, the EcoSport looks much like any other subcompact SUV. The trunk opens sideways rather than up, adding a whimsical flair to this vehicle. On the other hand, the front looks disproportionate to the rest of the body due to its truncated hood. Perhaps this was Ford's attempt at a bold and futuristic look, but we're not sure it's working.
The odd shape of the EcoSport creates blind spots that will become problematic for even the most experienced drivers. Climbing up the trim levels includes halogen LED lights, fog lamps, and rain-sensing wipers.
What warranty and safety does it offer?
The EcoSport could do better when it comes to both warranty and safety features:
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rates this model four out of five stars
- Many safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert are only available on the top two trim levels.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years
- Powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years
- Unlike other models, there is no complimentary scheduled maintenance
Are there any incentives and rebates on the EcoSport?
Ford offers incentives to U.S. military personnel, veterans, college students, recent graduates, and first responders. Some dealerships may offer additional incentives and rebates. To learn more about these options, visit your local Ford dealership.
