2019 Ford EcoSport
The Ford EcoSport is a compact model that slots at the very bottom of Ford's crossover lineup. It shares its basic platform and many of its mechanical components with the Fiesta.
OverviewThe EcoSport stands out as the first Indian-made car sold in America. And while it has been on sale abroad since 2012, it didn't make its American debut until 2017. Ford redesigned it before sending it on a boat here, giving it a more chiseled look that falls in line with its current design language.
The interior betrays the EcoSport's Fiesta origins. Though they're not identical, the basic layout is undeniably similar. Well-equipped models come with a touch screen planted right in the middle of the dashboard that runs Ford's SYNC infotainment system.
Don't let its small footprint fool you; the EcoSport is surprisingly spacious, thanks in part to its tall silhouette. With five passengers on-board, the EcoSport offers 20.9 cubic feet of trunk space. Folding down the rear seats yields 50 cubes.
Under the hood
The EcoSport's base engine is a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder that provides 123 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 125 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. Buyers after more power can order a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 166 horses and 149 pound-feet of twist.
Front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission come standard. Four-wheel drive is offered at an extra cost, only available with the four-cylinder. Properly equipped, the EcoSport can tow up to 2,000 pounds.
Standard and optional features
Ford offers the EcoSport in four trim levels named S, SE, SES, and Titanium, respectively. The list of standard features includes a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, an MP3-compatible stereo, a capless fuel filter, power-adjustable mirrors, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, cruise control, a 4.2-inch touch screen on the center stack, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and intermittent wipers.
Highlights from the list of extra-cost options include the 2.0-liter engine, four-wheel drive, fog lights, floor liners, a power moonroof, projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, a remote engine starter, roof rails, navigation, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Buyers also have several option packages to choose from.
Occupant safety
The EcoSport comes with dual front, knee, full-length curtain and side airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems and a rollover sensor.
Key competitors
The Ford EcoSport competes in the same segment as the Nissan Kicks, the Honda HR-V, the Fiat 500X, the Mazda CX-3, the Jeep Renegade, and the Chevrolet Trax.