2021 Ford EcoSport Review

Name: 2021 Ford EcoSport Review
Brand: Ford
Price: 13950 USD

2021 Ford EcoSport Titanium 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

Ford EcoSport Titanium 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

+354

The Ford EcoSport's name suggests a harmonic vision of performance and efficiency. Alas, there's nothing very sporty or economical about its wheezy three-cylinder engine. We're also disappointed with the choppy ride quality and lack of advanced safety features. A large cargo area makes it a compelling choice for active lifestyles, however.

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2021 Ford EcoSport Review

byReese Counts^{Vehicle Test Editor
Reese Counts has worked in the automotive industry since he started as an intern at Edmunds in 2015. He has written or edited thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Reese is a vehicle test editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autoblog. Reese has also been featured on Yahoo! Finance, Engadget and AOL reviewing cars and covering automotive technology, auto shows and more. Reese learned to drive in his father's C4 Chevrolet Corvette and now owns his grandfather's 1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. A love for cars runs deep in his family.}

Pros

Above-average cargo space for the class
Infotainment interface is easy to use

Cons

Aside from blind-spot monitoring, advanced driver aids aren't available
Below-average fuel economy
Base engine can struggle while carrying passengers and cargo
Choppy, jittery ride on most surfaces

What's new

Power driver's seat now standard on SES and Titanium trims
Cargo cover and package tray included on SE trim and above
Minor exterior styling changes
Part of the first EcoSport generation introduced for 2018

Overview

The 2021 EcoSport is the smallest vehicle — car, truck or SUV — currently available from Ford. It's smaller than the Ford Escape even, but in return has a lower price and a still reasonable amount of space and utility. Unfortunately, there are some significant deficiencies elsewhere, such as a lack of advanced driver aids, a choppy ride and disappointing fuel economy.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Ford EcoSport S 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$151/mo

$179/mo

Avg. Compact SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

There are plenty of options for an extra-small crossover SUV. Some of Edmunds' favorites include the Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, Subaru Crosstrek and Kia Soul. All of those feel more upscale and refined than the EcoSport. They also provide more of the latest advanced driver aids and higher fuel economy. But if you're set on this pint-sized Ford, check out our Expert Rating below for a full breakdown of the EcoSport's hits and misses.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Below Average

6.8

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

6.0/10

How does the EcoSport drive? The three-cylinder engine is woefully underpowered. Even with the turbocharger spooled up, it takes a long time to bring the EcoSport up to highway speeds. In Edmunds' testing, 0-60 mph took 11.4 seconds — one of the slowest paces in the segment. Further slowing things down is the automatic transmission's indecisive nature.

The EcoSport doesn't exhibit much body roll when going around turns, though ultimate handling grip is modest due to the economy-oriented tires. Steering feel is abysmal — it feels as though the steering wheel is connected to the tires with ony a large rubber band. It's a strange sensation that's hard to get accustomed to. A firm push on the brake pedal is required for stopping power.

Comfort

7.0/10

How comfortable is the EcoSport? Though the side bolsters aren't very wide, they manage to secure front passengers in fast turns. The seat bottoms are firm and comfy, but the seatbacks feel flat as boards. The rear seats are similarly flat and shapeless. Ride comfort isn't much better. The EcoSport's ride is choppy and bumpy on most surfaces. It handles road undulations well, but it still gets bounced around by the sharper impacts of bad pavement.

More positively, the automatic climate control works well and the seat heaters get hot quickly. Road and wind noise is hushed, but you do get a little bit of engine noise, though the three-cylinder sounds surprisingly good.

Interior

7.0/10

How’s the interior? The EcoSport's cabin is just roomy enough, but smarter packaging would open it up even more. For example, the deep dashboard gobbles valuable real estate. Thick front and rear roof pillars create significant blind spots. Most controls are easy to reach, though some labels are cryptic, and some virtual buttons on the vertically oriented touchscreen are hard to hit.

It's easy to find an agreeable position in the driver's seat. It's easy to get into the front, but the raised "stadium-style" rear seats make it tricky to gracefully enter and exit.

Technology

7.0/10

How’s the tech? We highly recommend selecting a trim level with the Sync 3 infotainment system — it's fast and easy to use, and it adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. The high-definition screen provides a navigation display that is sharp and sophisticated. The optional B&O audio system exceeds expectations for the segment.

A rearview camera is standard, and a blind-spot monitor is optional. Though advanced safety sytems are becoming common even in this bargain-priced segment, they aren't available on the EcoSport. A Wi-Fi hotspot is a relatively exotic feature in this price class, however. The voice commands are highly structured; your smartphone's voice assistant is better.

Storage

7.0/10

How’s the storage? Like the larger Escape, the EcoSport suits active lifestyles. With 20.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row, the cargo area is roughly the same size as the Jeep Renegade's and a bit larger than the Mazda CX-3's. Folding the rear seats increases space to 50 cubic feet, but you'll have to manipulate the front seats and fold the rear headrests down to yield max space. The left-hinged tailgate opens to side for curbside cargo-loading.

In-cabin storage is sufficient, with a skinny but deep center console and useful door pocket storage. Installing car seats is tough — the car seat anchors are hidden behind stiff upholstery.

Fuel Economy

6.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? We managed 25.9 mpg on our 115-mile mixed driving evaluation loop: decent but short of the EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined. Our result was actually closer to the optional all-wheel-drive model's rating. The EcoSport's sluggishness gave us high hopes for better fuel efficiency, but we were ultimately disappointed.

Value

6.5/10

Is the EcoSport a good value? At nearly $27,000 as tested, our Titanium test vehicle was quite pricey for a subcompact crossover. A larger Escape or other crossover delivers more for the same, or less, money. You either really need to like the EcoSport's diminutive size (understandable given its parking ease) or just like its style. Build quality is solid overall, but a persistent, unidentified rattle from the rear of our test vehicle's cabin was annoying.

Bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage is for three years/36,000 miles, while the powertrain is covered for five years/60,000 miles. Roadside assistance is included for five years/60,000 miles (and includes towing to a nearby Ford dealer, battery jump and fuel delivery).

Wildcard

7.0/10

Depending how you define "sport," this small Ford could be a decent pick for a small SUV. It has decent cargo space and promises thrifty performance. But it really needs grippier tires, quicker acceleration, and a total overhaul of steering feel to be truly sporty. There are better choices for a fun-driving small crossover SUV.

Which EcoSport does Edmunds recommend?

Go for the mid-tier EcoSport SE to get the most value. It comes with more standard features than the base S and has silver-painted wheels and body-color door handles to class up the styling a little. It's also worth opting for all-wheel drive. Doing so gets you the EcoSport's more powerful engine, which is what you want.

2021 Ford EcoSport models

The 2021 Ford EcoSport is available in four trim levels: S, SE, SES and Titanium. EcoSport S, SE and Titanium models with front-wheel drive are powered by a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine (123 horsepower, 125 lb-ft of torque). All-wheel drive is optional on those trims and standard on the SES. Every all-wheel-drive model gets a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (166 hp, 149 lb-ft). Both engines are paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Other feature highlights include:

S
It's lightly equipped with:

16-inch alloy wheels
Cruise control
Power windows and locks
Six-speaker audio system
Two USB charging ports
4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot

SE
The SE builds off the base S model with a number of additional features. Changes include:

LED running lights
Fog lights
Body-color door handles and trim
Roof rails
Keyless entry with push-button start
Automatic climate control
Sunroof
Tinted rear windows
Heated front seats
Satellite radio
8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Integrated navigation system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)

Notable options include:

SE Convenience package

110-volt power outlet
Ambient interior lighting
Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
Seven-speaker audio system

SE Appearance package

17-inch wheels
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Leather-wrapped steering wheel

SES
The SES is the most stylish member of the lineup, with lots of gloss-black and dark-colored accents. In addition to standard all-wheel drive and the 2.0-liter engine, the SES comes with all SE features, adding:

Standard SE Convenience package
Black 17-inch wheels
Sport-tuned suspension
Heated steering wheel
Leather upholstery with cloth inserts
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Heated exterior mirrors
Rain-sensing windshield wipers

Titanium
Like the SES, the EcoSport Titanium includes all of the SE's features. In addition to the standard SE Convenience package, the Titanium includes:

17-inch wheels
Chrome and metallic exterior accents
Heated steering wheel
Leather upholstery
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Heated exterior mirrors
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Nine-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 Ford EcoSport.

5 (40%)

4 (22%)

3 (5%)

2 (11%)

1 (22%)

3.5

67 reviews

Write a vehicle review See all 67 reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Love it

Illinoistony, 11/01/2020

2020 Ford EcoSport SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

Economical...I easily hit 30mpg highway and smooth ride all the way. Pop into sport mode and it kicks up a notch too. Plenty of room for riders. I got just about all features and worth it. Handles nicely, no complaints.

Chef Sharon

Chef Sharon , 12/11/2020

2020 Ford EcoSport S 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

I bought a brand new 2020 SUV ecosport from Weber Ford and Granite City Illinois. I'm six foot tall and I have plenty of legroom I even had to move the seat up it's fantastic I love I'm surrounded by airbags in case somebody hits me or something does happen beautiful design lots of stuff on the interior I'm just so happy with this vehicle.

What a totally awesome little 4WD

tpk1962, 02/17/2021

2020 Ford EcoSport Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

If your like me you read every review 50 times before you pull the trigger. Rarely do these experts actually review from a consumers perspective just an artificial world of non comparables. Like many real consumers I'm in my late 50's and I've had at least 20 different cars in my life (probably more) and I can honestly say value for the dollar is superb. Nobody pays list, so take that …

Happy with my lil SUV

Fun sized SUV worth a look!, 12/07/2020

2020 Ford EcoSport SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

This vehicle gets terrible press and I don't get it. I have the Eco Sport with 2.0 and AWD SE. Love the heated seats, sunroof, and the infotainment is great. AWD is a must in the NW and it goes everywhere without issue. Handles great and fits anywhere you'd need to park. Turns on a dime and has great visibility. Super happy with this purchase and would buy one again in a heartbeat. With …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Ford EcoSport, so we've included reviews for other years of the EcoSport since its last redesign.

See all 67 reviews of the Ford EcoSport

Write a vehicle review

2021 EcoSport Highlights

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$20,395
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	28 MPG
Cost to Drive	$151/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	20.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the EcoSport models:

Integrated Blind-Spot Mirrors: Reduces blind spots with a smaller, angled mirror within each exterior mirror.
Rear View Camera: Displays an image of the area right behind the rear bumper in the central display screen.
Blind Spot Information System: Alerts the driver when vehicles are in the EcoSport's blind spots.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover3 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover20.4%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Not Tested
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2021 Ford EcoSport Review

2021 Ford EcoSport Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Ford EcoSport S 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which EcoSport does Edmunds recommend?

2021 Ford EcoSport models

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 Ford EcoSport.

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Love it

Chef Sharon

What a totally awesome little 4WD

Happy with my lil SUV

2021 EcoSport Highlights

Safety

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2021 Ford EcoSport Review

2021 Ford EcoSport Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Ford EcoSport S 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which EcoSport does Edmunds recommend?

2021 Ford EcoSport models

Most helpful consumer reviews

Love it

Chef Sharon

What a totally awesome little 4WD

Happy with my lil SUV

2021 EcoSport Highlights

Safety

People who viewed this also viewed

Related Used 2021 Ford EcoSport info

Vehicle reviews of used models

Shop similar models

Shop used vehicles in your area

Popular new car reviews and ratings

Research other models of Ford

Research similar vehicles

Other models

Join Edmunds

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Ford EcoSport S 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}