Ford EcoSport 2021 Review

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.

There are plenty of options for an extra-small crossover SUV. Some of MatoCar' 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.

Which EcoSport does MatoCar recommend?

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