Whether they’re big or small, we just cannot get enough of SUVs. That’s understandable as utility vehicles offer an excellent combination of passenger space and cargo room. And in most cases, they can tow too.
Ford has its share of SUVs available, including the range-topping Expedition and hot-selling Escape. For 2020, the Explorer is all-new, while the Edge soldiers on with its performance ST trim, which delivers an exclamation point on this model’s range. As for the Flex, it was last produced in 2019, a wagon-like utility vehicle that never seemed to enjoy much of a following outside of California.
Ford EcoSport competitive set:
That leaves us with the Ford EcoSport, the smallest of all utility vehicles from the blue oval brand. This one is a subcompact, which slots beneath the Escape and competes against such models as the Nissan Kicks, Honda HR-V, Chevrolet Trax, Toyota C-HR, and the Mazda CX-3. We’d be remiss if we left out a few more models, including the Subaru Crosstrek, Fiat 500X, Kia Seltos, and the Hyundai Kona. And even smaller than the Kona is the all-new Hyundai Venue.
Here are the noteworthy factoids about the EcoSport:
1. Available in four trims.
The 2020 EcoSport is available in four trims: S, SE, SES, and Titanium. All but the all-wheel-drive-only SES are available with standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. This one tows too — up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.
2. Your choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
Choose the EcoSport and you’ll find both standard front- and available all-wheel drive. This is an important distinction as some competitors, including the Toyota C-HR, Nissan Kicks, and Hyundai Venue are front-wheel-drive-only models.
3. Space for five, maybe.
On paper, the EcoSport seats five, but four is more like it. However, we think most shoppers are first-time single or young married couples without children. Further, fold-down the rear seat and you’ll find 50 cubic feet of storage space, which is excellent for this model.
4. A standard three-banger engine.
In this segment, only the Ford EcoSport offers a three-cylinder engine. With a displacement of approximately one liter, it is easily the smallest of the lot. But it comes turbocharged, which means it bangs out 123 horsepower, placing it in good company. This engine works with front-wheel drive exclusively, but you can get all-wheel drive if you opt for the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. By the way, both engines work with a six-speed automatic transmission.
5. About that swinging rear door.
Unlike every competing model with a rear liftgate, the Ford EcoSport utilizes a swing gate. This one is hinged on the left, therefore it opens wide from right to left. A handle embedded within the right tail lamp releases the locking mechanism. Quite frankly, you need extra space behind the vehicle to access the door to avoid hitting the vehicle behind you or standing in traffic to access the storage area.
6. Available tech features, but no driver-assist.
Small in size, the EcoSport offers a decent amount of tech and safety equipment. This model has a 4.2-inch display screen, a six-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, and two USB ports. Ford makes available a Wi-Fi hotspot, which can connect as many as 10 devices. This year, it is standard equipment. Unfortunately, you won’t advanced driver-assist features such as lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring is available. The dearth of such equipment puts the EcoSport at a disadvantage in this segment.
7. Built in India.
The Ford EcoSport has the distinction of being the first full-production vehicle built in India for shipment to the United States. The vehicle was designed for the Indian market, then adapted for Europe, before making its way to America.
2020 EcoSport Parting Thoughts
Ford India introduced the EcoSport in 2013, introducing to the U.S. in 2018. Therefore, it is the oldest model in the segment, which puts it behind the competition. Its cargo space is a plus, but its below-average fuel economy works against it.
2020 Ford Ecosport Specifications
| Ford | 2020 Ecosport |
|---|---|
| Segment | Subcompact SUV |
| Price Range | $20,845 to $27,380 |
| Destination Charge | $1,095 |
| Engine No. 1 | -1.0-liter, turbo I3 |
| Horsepower | 123 @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 125 @ 6,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Engine No. 2 | 2.0-liter, I4 |
| Horsepower | 166 @ 6,500 |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 149 @ 4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Seating | 5 |
| Curb Weight (pounds) | 3,021 to 3,300 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 99.2 |
| Length (inches) | 161.3 |
| Width (inches) | 71.9 |
| Height (inches) | 64.8 |
| Headroom (f,r…inches) | 39.6, 37.5 |
| Legroom (f,r…inches) | 42.9, 36.7 |
| Shoulder room (f,r…inches) | 53.3, 51.3 |
| Hip room (f,r…inches) | 51.6, 50.9 |
| Storage (cubic feet) | 20.9, 50 |
| Gross vehicle weight (pounds) | NR |
| Towing (pounds) | 1,400 (I3), 2,000 (I4) |
| Payload (pounds) | NR |
| Fuel | Regular |
| Fuel Tank (gallons) | 13.8 |
| EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) | 27/29/28 (I3), 23/29/25 (I4) |
| Manufacturing Plant | Sanand, Gujarat India |
Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.
See Also —Slot This Tiny Ford Ecosport SUV
Photo copyright the Ford Motor Company.
Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources including NAPA, CarsDirect, CapitalOne, and Driven Autos.
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