The EcoSport is a pint-sized 4-door crossover SUV that is roughly the same size as class competitors such as the Buick Encore, Chevrolet Trax, and Honda HR-V. However, it stands out a bit from its rivals by offering a swing-open, driver-side-hinged tailgate instead of the typical top-hinged liftgate. Ford’s 1.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost 3-cylinder is standard on front-wheel-drive EcoSports. All-wheel-drive models come standard with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder.
The EcoSport model lineup ascends through Ford’s typical S, SE, SES, and Titanium trim levels. Available features include Ford’s SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system; remote locking/unlocking connectivity features via the FordPass mobile app; and a 10-speaker, 675-watt B&O PLAY premium audio system.
We’ll have to wait a while to see the EcoSport hit the streets here… it’s slated to arrive in dealerships in early 2018.
CG Says:
Ford is a little bit late to the subcompact SUV party, but the EcoSport looks to be a credible competitor in the class. Other than the swing-out tailgate and mobile connectivity functions, we don’t see any truly standout features here, but Ford has been achieving a surprising level of all-around refinement in its small vehicles in recent years. The EcoSport’s fit and finish, interior materials, and driving personality may end up being a cut above some established class rivals—with a possible price premium to match.
