2021 Ford EcoSport

The 2021 EcoSport range includes two very different engines, each mated to a different drive system. Prices start at $21,240 (all prices include destination) for an S trim with the EcoBoost engine, with a $1,595 price jump to the larger two-liter gas engine and all-wheel drive.

The SE trim is available from $24,695, with a $1,500 jump to the bigger engine, and Titanium starts at $27,510 with a $1,450 uplift. SES models are only available with the larger engine, for $28,820, making them slightly cheaper than a similarly configured Titanium model.

One of the EcoSport’s two available gas engines is twice the size of the other. The differences between them are less dramatic, since the 1.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost unit generates 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque, compared to the 166 hp and 149 lb-ft of the normally aspirated 2.0-liter engine.

The EcoBoost supplies power to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission, while the larger 2.0 has intelligent four-wheel drive as standard. The EcoSport returns an EPA-estimated 27 miles per gallon city, 29 mpg highway, and 28 combined, while the other engine’s figures are 23/29/25 respectively.

Cargo capacity for the five-seater EcoSport stands at 20.9 cu ft with the rear seats in place, and exactly 50 cu ft once they’re dropped.

Despite a relatively affordable sticker price, every EcoSport is furnished with safety aids including automatic lights, cruise control, and hill start assistance. The cabin features eight airbags and a post-crash alert system, while roll stability control attempts to minimize the likelihood of a crash.

SE models get a reverse sensing system as standard, whereas SES and Titanium receive blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alerts with rain-sensing wipers. Unlike its competitors, you won't find automatic emergency braking (AEB) or more advanced features at any price point.

Base S models are a long way behind the times, lacking the eight-inch capacitive touchscreen found in SE models and above. They also lack smartphone compatibility, with a modest 4.2-inch LCD screen and voice control powering a six-speaker stereo and smart-charging USB ports.

It is possible to connect up to ten devices to a 4G WiFi hotspot in every EcoSport, remotely unlocking and starting the vehicle and locating it in car parks. SE trim and above gains satellite radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, but you’ll need SES or Titanium to enjoy navigation and a seven-speaker sound system.

It might seem unfair to criticize such an affordable SUV for being sparsely-equipped, but S-trim EcoSports are not luxurious.

FordPass Connect technology includes WiFi hotspot and remote engine control, remote central locking and smart-charging USB ports. There’s climate control and cruise control, power front and rear windows, and a six-speaker stereo.

It’s not possible to upgrade EcoSport models with options packs.

As the first trim on nodding terms with modern specifications, SE models receive an 8.0-inch touchscreen powering smartphone connectivity and a reverse sensing system. Electronic climate control is augmented with heated front bucket seats, while second-row passengers gain privacy glass.

There’s keyless entry and push-button start, a power moonroof with sunshade, configurable LED daytime running lamps, and a de-icer function for the windshield wipers.

Only available with a two-liter engine and all-wheel drive, SES models also gain larger 17-inch aluminum wheels and sport-tuned suspension alongside blind spot and cross-traffic alerts. The stereo receives an extra speaker and navigation comes as standard, while the side mirrors are powered and heated.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel is also heated, and the driver’s seat gains six-way power, with ambient cabin lighting and rain-sensing front wipers.

Available with a choice of engines, chrome moldings and strips distinguish Titanium models alongside unique machined aluminum wheels. Other differences from SES models include the inclusion of a center floor console and a ten-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with subwoofer, plus perforated seat fabrics.

Compare EcoSport Trims Side-By-Side