2020 Ford EcoSport
| MSRP | $21,535 |
|---|---|
| Edmunds suggests you pay | $16,511 |
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2020 Ford EcoSport Review
- Above-average cargo space for the class
- All-wheel drive can be ordered at every trim level
- Widespread availability of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Sync 3 infotainment interface is fast and easy to use
- Aside from blind-spot monitoring, advanced safety aids aren't available
- Below-average fuel economy
- Base engine might struggle while carrying passengers and cargo
- Choppy, jittery ride on most road surfaces
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot now standard
- 8-inch touchscreen now standard on SE models
- Part of the first EcoSport generation introduced for 2018
While compact crossovers have exploded in popularity over the last decade, their smaller siblings are good alternatives for buyers looking for something a little more affordable. Unfortunately, many subcompact SUVs lack the finesse and refinement of their stablemates. The 2020 Ford EcoSport is one of these; it doesn't match the expectations set by its direct competitors or the larger Ford Escape.
First, here's the good news. Ford has done a good job at masking the EcoSport's age — though relatively new to the U.S., the EcoSport has been on sale in other markets for over half a decade. The cabin design is similar to the Escape, and materials are commensurate to what you'll find in other small SUVs. The EcoSport makes the most of its modest footprint, as both passenger and cargo room are good for the class. However, that's the extent of the EcoSport's strengths.
This bite-size Ford has numerous drawbacks not shared with its competitors. Many subcompacts offer a wealth of advanced driving aids, but only a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring are available here. Both available engines feel underpowered, and this feeling only intensifies as you load the car with passengers and gear. We're also not fond of the EcoSport's lifeless steering, choppy ride quality or compromised rear visibility. Note that few of these drawbacks are present in the pre-2020 Ford Escape. If you desire a small, easy-to-park runabout, there are better choices in the class. And if you have a little flexibility in your budget, you'll find a superior SUV in Ford's own lineup.
Notably, the 2020 Ford EcoSport is a featured vehicle in our Cheapest New Cars article.
Our verdict | |
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. | |
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 to 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 | |
How comfortable is the EcoSport? | |
Though the side bolsters aren't very wide, they manage to secure front passengers in fast turns. 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 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 are hushed, but you do get a little bit of engine noise (though the three-cylinder sounds surprisingly good). | |
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 seat. Front seat entry is good, but the raised, "stadium-style" rear seats make it tricky to gracefully enter and exit. | |
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 realtively exotic feature in this price class, however. Voice commands are highly structured; your smartphone's voice assistant is better. | |
How’s the storage? | |
Like the larger Escape, the EcoBoost 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 this to 50 cubes, 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 LATCH anchors are hidden behind stiff upholstery. | |
How economical is the EcoSport? | |
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. | |
Is the EcoSport a good value? | |
At nearly $27,000 as-tested, our Titanium tester 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 3 years/36,000 miles, while the powertrain is good for 5 years/60,000 miles. Roadside assistance is included for 5 years/60,000 miles (and includes towing to nearby Ford dealer, battery jump, and fuel delivery). | |
Wildcard | |
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?
Though attractively priced, the base S trim is lightly equipped and looks a little low-rent inside and out. The SE is our pick, with body-colored accents, silver-painted wheels and a ton of upgrades inside. If you want Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this trim is your starting point. We also recommend selecting all-wheel drive, which also adds a more powerful four-cylinder engine to the mix. The base turbocharged three-cylinder is fine if you're flying solo, but it lacks meaningful thrust when traveling with friends.
Ford EcoSport models
The 2020 Ford EcoSport is a five-passenger subcompact crossover that slots below the Escape in Ford's SUV lineup. The EcoSport S is decently equipped, with available all-wheel drive and most basic amenities you'll want from a modern car. The SE is quite a bit pricier, but its list of added features is extensive. From there, buyers can go in one of two ways: the sport-themed SES — adding the EcoSport's upgraded engine and standard all-wheel drive — or the luxurious Titanium, with leather upholstery and a B&O Play premium sound system.
Save as much as $7,258 with Edmunds
2020 Ford EcoSport pricing
in Ashburn, VA
S
1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$16,511
5 for sale in 20147
SE
1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$19,476
20 for sale in 20147
SES
2.0L 4cyl 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$21,776
12 for sale in 20147
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Ford EcoSport.
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Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, What a totally awesome little 4WD
tpk1962,
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 off the table, getting a 2020 Ecosport titanium with 4WD and the 2 liter engine for around $22K is a steal. This is a fun little peppy car, ready to park, just enough cargo, leather heated seats and steering wheel, bang and olufsen sound system... Dare I go on! Anything comparable in the Japanese realm will push you well into the $30's. The Ford apple car play or Android auto is seamless. Is it a jaguar, land rover, BMW, or mercedes... Nope but that's not the buyer, and to be completely honest, it won't eat you alive for service like those manufacturers. If you want a really good runabout that's fun, looks unique and is reasonable on gas... You just read about it!
5/5 stars, Love it
Illinoistony,
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.
5/5 stars, Chef Sharon
Chef Sharon ,
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.
5/5 stars, Happy with my lil SUV
Fun sized SUV worth a look!,
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 all the discounts it was less expensive than most entry cars. I've been averaging 28 mpg with 50/50 split of hwy and city driving. No it won't win any races and it is not a luxury suv but it is totally worth a look and the money.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite EcoSport safety features:
- 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.
Ford EcoSport vs. the competition
2020 Ford EcoSport
2019 Ford Escape
Ford EcoSport vs. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is totally redesigned for 2020. The interior is larger than the previous model's cabin, and there's more cargo space, too. Just like with the EcoSport, the Escape's base engine is a turbocharged three-cylinder, but it's 50% larger and produces much more power. But all the extra goodies come at a cost: Like most compact crossovers, the Escape costs quite a bit more than the subcompact EcoSport.
Ford EcoSport vs. Honda HR-V
Even though it's a few years older than the Ford, the Honda HR-V provides stiff competition to the EcoSport. The HR-V is roomier and more fun to drive, and it has a more powerful and fuel-efficient engine. The EcoSport has one definite advantage — its Sync 3 infotainment system is vastly superior to the HR-V interface — but it isn't enough to give the EcoSport the win in our book.
Ford EcoSport vs. Hyundai Kona
Though there are many solid choices in the subcompact class, the Hyundai Kona is our favorite. It is similar to competitors in starting price, but it has more features, including standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and forward collision warning. Further up the trim ladder, you'll find a much more powerful engine — a rare upgrade in this class. Surprisingly capable handling and an excellent infotainment system round out its strengths.
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FAQ
Is the Ford EcoSport a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 EcoSport both on the road and at the track, giving it a 6.8 out of 10. You probably care about Ford EcoSport fuel economy, so it's important to know that the EcoSport gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg to 28 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the EcoSport has 20.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Ford EcoSport. Learn more
What's new in the 2020 Ford EcoSport?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Ford EcoSport:
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot now standard
- 8-inch touchscreen now standard on SE models
- Part of the first EcoSport generation introduced for 2018
Is the Ford EcoSport reliable?
To determine whether the Ford EcoSport is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the EcoSport. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the EcoSport's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2020 Ford EcoSport a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Ford EcoSport is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 EcoSport and gave it a 6.8 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 EcoSport is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2020 Ford EcoSport?
The least-expensive 2020 Ford EcoSport is the 2020 Ford EcoSport S 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $19,995.
Other versions include:
- SE 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $23,450
- SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $24,950
- S 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $19,995
- SES 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $27,380
- S 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $21,590
- Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $27,715
- Titanium 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $26,265
What are the different models of Ford EcoSport?
If you're interested in the Ford EcoSport, the next question is, which EcoSport model is right for you? EcoSport variants include SE 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A), SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A), S 4dr SUV (1.0L 3cyl Turbo 6A), and SES 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A). For a full list of EcoSport models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more