Ford has done a decent job covering the bases with all manner and size of utility vehicles, with one exception: something really small. Now you can check that off the list.
For 2018, the new Ford EcoSport joins, in ascending order of size, the Escape, the Edge, the Explorer and the Expedition. Whether you add the Flex to that list depends on your idea of a utility vehicle.
The subcompact EcoSport (pronounced echo sport, not eeko sport) is new to North America, but it’s a familiar name in Ford markets in South America, Asia and Europe, dating back as far as 2003. In fact, the version sold here, which is built on the tiny Fiesta platform, is being shipped to us from the Ford plant in India.
From the front, the EcoSport’s looks clearly displays commonality with the Escape and Edge. From the sides, however, the wraparound-style rear window is reminiscent of what you’ll find on the larger Explorer. Note that access to the stowage area is through a side-hinged back door rather than a traditional liftgate.
Because of the high roofline and short distance between the front and rear wheels, the EcoSport appears somewhat top heavy, but that means sufficient head and legroom for adult passengers and it helps provide a reasonable amount of cargo capacity. Naturally, that capacity is nowhere near what the one-size-larger Escape offers, but it’s slightly better than what you’ll find in the tiny Chevrolet Trax, despite that model being slightly longer than the EcoSport.
The dashboard and control panel are more utilitarian than fancy, but the knob-controlled climate and audio functions should be easily mastered, as will the few switches found on the steering wheel.
A basic 4.2-inch display is standard, but dominating the dashboard are optional 6.0- and 8.0-inch tablet-style touchscreens.
Engine choices consist of a turbocharged 1.0-litre three cylinder that puts out 123 horsepower and 125 foot-pounds of torque. Optional is a non-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder making 166 h.p. and 149 foot-pounds of torque.
Instead of taking the price-leader approach and installing manual transmissions in base EcoSports, all models come with six-speed automatics. Trailer weight is limited to about
900 kilograms.
As for fuel economy, the turbo three-cylinder shines, earning an 8.4 (litres/100 kilometres) rating in combined city and highway driving, compared to 9.3 for the four-cylinder. Both engines get a stop/start function that shuts down their operation when the EcoSport isn’t moving.
All-wheel drive is available, which is a feature that can’t be had in a couple of competing small and tall wagons. To get it in the EcoSport, you also need the optional four-cylinder engine that’s available in the top-end SES trim.
Base EcoSport S pricing begins at $23,900, with destination charges. That includes much of what you would expect in a modern vehicle, economy or otherwise, including air conditioning, basic power-operated functions, two USB ports and 16-inch aluminum wheels (not steel wheels with covers, as you might expect). A full-size spare tire can be mounted to the back door of the S trim at extra cost.
The SE adds a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, Sync3 infotainment system, roof rails and a backup-warning system.
The Titanium trim level includes leather-trimmed seats, navigation, premium audio and 17-inch wheels.
Atop the pecking order, the SES comes with the four-cylinder/all-wheel-drive combo, blacked-out wheels and trim, and sport-tuned (firmer) suspension. There’s also blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic backup alert. Choosing the full-load SES will take a $31,200 bite out of your transportation budget, at which point you might want to consider a roomier Ford Escape with a bit less content, but at a lower price.
But if around-town and country back-road nimbleness are considerations, the EcoSport fills the bill and should also let you fill your tank less frequently.
Market position
Automakers appear bent on filling every possible utility niche, especially the smaller end of the scale. Ford is arriving late to this segment despite the EcoSport’s long-time availability in other countries. Interestingly, it’s not priced or equipped like a bare-bones entry model.
Points
- Cute, but chunky styling at least provides enough space for adult passengers and their gear.
- Low-key interior still provides the latest communications and infotainment tech.
- Base turbo engine has proven to be surprisingly nimble, but the four-cylinder is mandatory for AWD.
- Too bad that emergency braking isn’t standard or even optional.
- Active safety: Blind-spot warning with cross-traffic backup alert.
- Base price (including destination) $23,900.
Competition
Chevrolet Trax: A slightly larger utility model that’s likely the EcoSport’s closest competitor. Base price: $23,000.
Honda HR-V: Great style, a roomy interior. Base price: $23,100.
Hyundai Kona: A spunky 2019 subcompact with attractive looks and a 174-h.p. I-4 option. Base price: $22,900.
– Wheelbase Media
