Used 2018 Ford EcoSport

Slotting beneath the Ford Escape compact SUV in size and price, the new 2018 Ford EcoSport (echo-sport) is the latest entry in the fast-growing subcompact SUV segment that includes the Chevrolet Trax, Mazda CX-3, top-selling Honda HR-V and others. We gave it a thorough inspection at its official unveiling, and Ford has released enough specs, features and prices for us to provide this “preview review” ahead of our first drive. 

The 2018 Ford EcoSport is one of the few subcompact SUVs to offer a choice of engines. Based on power-to-weight ratios, it’s a safe bet EcoSport models with the smaller, 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine will be among the slower entries in the segment. And those fitted with the 166-horsepower 4-cylinder engine should be among the quicker entries. Fuel economy for the smaller engine is about average at 28 mpg combined, while the larger engine’s 25 mpg combined places it in the bottom half of the segment. Power always has its price.

Even in subcompact form, cargo flexibility is among an SUV’s key strengths. The Honda HR-V is among the segment’s roomiest entries, the Mazda CX-3 is among the smallest, and the Ford falls closer to the middle, offering about as much passenger and cargo volume as the Chevy Trax. These vehicles are all appreciably smaller than their compact SUV counterparts, so consider all your cargo and passenger needs when weighing your options.

Unmistakable as the little brother of the Ford Escape, the 2018 Ford EcoSport has one of the segment’s smallest footprints, measuring just over 161 inches in length. Outward-facing notables include a capless fuel filler and a swinging tailgate that’s hinged on the side instead of opening upward. Practically speaking the unique tailgate’s shortcomings will likely outweigh the advantages for most owners in most situations, but the novelty factor holds some appeal.

SYNC 3 INFOTAINMENT
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are staff favorites, and they’re integrated here into Ford’s latest Sync infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring swipe and pinch-to-zoom control.

SYNC CONNECT AND FORDPASS
Lock, unlock or start your vehicle remotely, right from your smartphone. You can also track it down in a parking lot or check your fuel level.

The entry-level 2018 Ford EcoSport S starts at $20,990 (including destination charges) and includes a 123-horsepower 3-cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, rearview camera, auto headlights, 2 USB ports and a lower-tier Sync infotainment system.

A fully loaded 2018 Ford EcoSport can stretch into the high-$20,000 range with features like a moonroof, leather seats, Sync 3 infotainment system, remote-sensing keyless entry and pushbutton start, reverse sensing, 8-inch touchscreen, navigation system, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, premium audio and built-in Wi-Fi.

The 2018 Ford EcoSport’s base engine is matched with front-wheel drive, while the upgraded powertrain is all-wheel drive exclusively. Opt for the larger engine and you’ll have one of the quickest subcompact SUVs on the road. Towing capacity tops out at 2,000 pounds.

1.0-liter turbocharged (EcoBoost) 3-cylinder engine
Horsepower: 123 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed auto
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy: 27/29/28 mpg

2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine
Horsepower: 166 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 149 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed auto
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy: 23/29/25 mpg