The Ford EcoSport comes with two engine choices. The base car has a 1.0L in-line, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 123 horsepower. A bigger, 2.0L engine with 4-cylinders meanwhile, produces 166 horsepower; though owners will have to pay a small mileage penalty for the extra power. Power is sent to the front tires, or to all-four wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission. While Ford has not released mileage estimates for the EcoSport, we expect exceptional mileage for an SUV.
The EcoSport comes in four distinct trim levels, starting with the base S version. Standard equipment on the base model include one-touch power windows, automatic headlights, an MP3 capable stereo with six speakers, two USB ports, air conditioning, hill start assist, a rearview camera and an anti-theft system. Outside, the EcoSport has 16-inch wheels, daytime running lights, mirrors with an integrated blind spot system and the ability to tow up to 2000 lbs.
Stepping up to the SE gets buyers Ford's SYNC 3 operating system, SiriusXM Satellite radio, a power moonroof, automatic temperature control, body colored door handles, a trip computer and sensors in the rear bumper to help while backing up.
Titanium edition EcoSports get a much nicer stereo, a voice activated touch screen navigation system, Perforated leather seating surfaces, rain sensing wipers, a leather steering wheel and shift knob and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Outside, the Titanium is easily recognizable by its fog lamps, 17-inch wheels and additional chrome work. Several safety features are also included on the Titanium, including a cross-traffic alert system and an emergency brake assist system.
The top of the line SES is a little sportier than other EcoSports, starting with the engine. The bigger 2.0L comes standard as does sport tuned suspension. Otherwise the SES is equipped similarly to the Titanium and SE versions of the vehicle.
Compact And Nimble
Decent Ground Clearance
Available All-wheel Drive
Cheeky Styling
Fuel Efficient Engines
The Ford EcoSport is a brand new vehicle, slotting in below the escape at the bottom of Ford's SUV lineup. While the escape is the rough SUV equivalent to a compact car, the new EcoSport fills in the open niche of subcompact SUV. It's an interesting vehicle class that has not been experimented with very much in the United States, but Ford is confident that buyers will find plenty to like about the new diminutive little SUV.
Ford have done their homework with the new EcoSport, providing lots and lots of standard features that drivers want at this price point. In addition, the EcoSport promises to be pretty inexpensive to operate and own, especially with its economical 3-cylinder engine. City dwellers who fancy the occasional trip to the countryside will love the EcoSports maneuverability and the way its tiny body is able to swallow up seemingly endless amounts of luggage. The EcoSport also offers all-wheel drive, which is quite a rarity for a vehicle of this size. Prices start at under $20,000.
