The small crossover market has become one of the auto industry's most popular segments in recent years. So much so that a number of automakers are announcing plans to significantly reduce production of small and midsize cars. Ford is one such brand, and it can point to its 2018 Ford EcoSport as justification for the strategy shift.
The EcoSport is a new subcompact SUV with seating for five. It is available in four trim levels: S, SE, SES and Titanium, which our tester was.
The SES model is promoted by Ford as the sportiest, design-wise, and features distinctive style cues.
The EcoSport has two engines available: a turbocharged three-cylinder EcoBoost (also offered in the Fiesta and Focus, which are going away). It is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The other engine is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder with standard all-wheel drive, which was found in our tester.
Fuel economy is rated at 23 mpg city, 29 highway for the four-cylinder.
Driving the EcoSport proved pleasant enough, as its small size made it easy to handle and its visibility was good. However, it was slightly lacking in power, as one might expect. This isn't a deal breaker, though, just something to be mindful of when merging onto a busy freeway with a tractor trailer bearing down.
In an unusual touch, Ford went back to the swing out gate for the rear, instead of the nearly ubiquitous upward opening gate found on most crossovers today. Not quite sure the rationale behind that, because the swing gate occupies more space in places like tight garages. Perhaps just trying to be different. The interior of the EcoSport has a standing 8-inch touchscreen in the middle of the dash that includes Ford's latest Sync 3 multimedia system, standard on the Titanium models. Lower trim levels have a 4-inch or 6-inch screen in the same area.
Ford says Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered, as well as the FordPass app that connects the vehicle's systems through smartphone. The Titanium model features a Harman - B&O sound system called B&O Play, a 675-watt premium audio system featuring 10 speakers, including a subwoofer.
Storage is ample in the cozy EcoSport, with up to 30 cubbies, hooks and storage bins in the cabin. The second-row seats fold and stow to provide extra cargo room. There's also a false floor board in the cargo area to create a place for larger items.
Pricing on the tester was listed at $25,485, but remember that it is at the high end of the trim levels, so a lower level one would presumably be significantly less.
For a practical, fuel efficient small crossover, the EcoSport presents a strong offering.
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