The first challenge with the 2018 Ford EcoSport was to figure out how to get into the cargo area. The gate doesn't lift, but swings open? So where's the dang handle? It's recessed into the taillight?
Well, that is novel and, once you figure it out, pretty cool. And it's not the only cool feature of this new subcompact crossover SUV, the tiniest of vehicles in Ford's showroom this year. There's also an app called FordPass that enables you to find the car in a crowded lot, and this little guy can play hide and seek. You can also unlock or start the car right from your smartphone.
A safety feature called MyKey allows parents to limit top speeds and audio volume for peace of mind when their teen takes the EcoSport onto the interstate (yikes!). And, one more safety nod: The lights come on automatically with the wipers. Nice touch.
The EcoSport (pronounced echo-sport, unlike Ford's EcoBoost) has actually been around for 15 years, mostly in developing nations. Built in India, it comes to the U.S. for 2018 after a rework inside and out.
Shorter, smaller and rounder than the Ford Escape, the EcoSport is one of the few subcompacts that offers a choice of engines. Standard is a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 123 hp. Call it the little engine that couldn't get out of its own way.
Better to go with the optional 2.0-liter that gets 166 hp and 149 pound-feet of torque. It gets an all-wheel-drive system that surveys the road ahead and reportedly makes adjustments every 16 milliseconds. Both engines are linked to a 6-speed transmission.
The 2.0-liter, standard on the top-line Titanium trim, has enough pep, handles corners without issue under normal driving conditions, and offers a nicely poised ride considering its short wheelbase. Parking, of course, can practically be done blindfolded.
As astonishing as it sounds, EcoSport doesn't get stellar mileage. Figures are in the mid-20s: 28 mpg combined for the little engine, 25 combined for the 2.0-liter.
Inside, panels are well assembled and of reasonable quality for this segment. Seats are roomy up front, but head and shoulder room is tighter in the rear.
Ford's Sync 3 multimedia system is available with an 8-inch touchscreen and offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus connection to the aforementioned FordPass app. And an upgraded 675-watt sound system belts out tunes via 10 speakers and a subwoofer.
For a small subcompact, there are plenty of cubbies, hooks and bins for stuff _ as many as 30, by one count. Second-row seats fold to open up extra space, too.
While the cool tailgate is hinged on the left for easy curbside loading, it could be problematic in parallel parking situations where someone parked too close. Something to consider if you're an urbanite.
The usual air bags and traction control are in the EcoSport, as are blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warnings in the Titanium. But no advanced features, like forward-collision warning or automatic braking, are available even as an option.
EcoSport joins a growing pack of subcompact crossovers like Chevy's Trax, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3 and Honda HR-V. While it's a competitive field, it's no surprise Ford felt there was room for one more in this popular segment.
FACTBOX:
2018 Ford EcoSport
Base MSRP: $20,990
As tested: $26,750 (Titanium trim)
What's all the excitement about? Ford's global EcoSport subcompact gets a facelift and enters the U.S. market
Powertrain: 1.0-liter turbo 3-cylinder or 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, mated to 6-speed transmission
How's the performance? The 2.0 gets 166 hp, is spritely and decently poised; the 1.0-liter strains to keep up with its own shadow
What about fuel economy? EPA-rated at 25 mpg combined (2.0 engine); 28 mpg for the 1.0
