Ford EcoSport: Compact SUV Suffers from Minor Issues
In Germany, mini-SUVs are quite popular and the Ford EcoSport is part of this trend. This compact SUV has earned a good reputation for its spaciousness and relative affordability. However, it's worth noting that its production has been discontinued. Here's a closer look at how a used Ford EcoSport performs.
The Ford EcoSport first hit the German and European markets in 2014, but it was already two years old at that point. This second generation of the four-meter SUV had been on the market in South and Central America since 2012 and continued the success of the first, which was produced between 2003 and 2012. In Germany, the EcoSport competed against the Fiat 500X, Opel Mokka, and Renault Captur. Ford retired the model at the end of 2023.
Quality
In terms of TÜV main inspections, the Ford EcoSport presents a mixed picture. It sails through the chassis check without any issues, but the lighting test leaves something to be desired. Critics also point out potential oil loss in older vehicles.
Body and Interior
The EcoSport borrowed its body and interior from the seventh generation of the Ford Fiesta (2008-2017). It has an SUV design, with a spare tire mounted on the tailgate. There's ample seating for passengers, with both driver and front passenger sitting comfortably high. The cargo space ranges from 333 to 1238 liters. Access to the trunk is via a side-opening tailgate.
In 2015, the EcoSport underwent a facelift. Ford responded to customer complaints about the interior quality by introducing chrome accents and a dimmable light. The distinctive spare wheel was removed. The dashboard remained fragmented with many control knobs.
A few years later, in 2017, another facelift brought further improvements. The interior was refreshed with foam-padded plastic on the dashboard. The front design was made to resemble the larger sibling, the Ford Kuga.
Engines and Drive
At the time of its launch, the EcoSport offered a selection of gasoline and diesel engines. There was also the option to get all-wheel drive. The initial engine lineup included a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with 82 hp/112 PS, the popular 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbo with 92 hp/125 PS, and a 1.5-liter diesel with 66 hp/90 PS.
All vehicles were equipped with a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with a six-speed automatic transmission available for the four-cylinder gasoline engine. The gasoline engines consumed around 5.3 to 6.2 liters on average, while the diesel managed with just 4.6 liters. After the first facelift in 2015, the diesel engine saw an increase in power to 70 hp/95 PS. Ford made some tweaks to the suspension to reduce vibrations over road bumps.
From 2017 to 2019, Ford offered all-wheel drive alongside a 125 hp/170 PS 1.5-liter self-starter. Diesel engines were taken off the menu by the end of 2020, along with the 1.5-liter diesel with 88 hp/120 PS. Gasoline three-cylinder engines with 125 hp/170 PS and 103 hp/140 PS remained, while a 74 hp/100 PS three-cylinder engine joined the lineup in 2018.
Equipment and Safety
When the EcoSport first arrived in Germany, Ford made things simple by offering only one equipment line. This package included 16-inch light alloy wheels, air conditioning, and a CD radio.
Later, the EcoSport became available in four equipment lines. If you prefer a sporty look, the "ST Line" model will appeal to you. Extras included two-tone paint, Xenon headlights, and partial leather seats.
Since 2020, there's been the "Design" line, which comes with increased ground clearance and body protection panels on the bodywork.
In Summary
If you're considering a small SUV, the Ford EcoSport is definitely worth a look. Just be sure to check for well-maintained and recently TÜV-tested vehicles.
As per mobile.de, approximately 2600 used EcoSport models of the second generation are available for purchase on this platform. Prices start at around €6000.
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After exploring the used market, you might come across several small car options, including the Ford EcoSport. If you're interested in an SUV, Ford's compact model could be a contender. However, it's essential to consider the vehicle's MOT history, as minor issues have been reported in some used Ford EcoSport SUVs. Also, it's important to note that not all Ford models are created equal; some, like the popular Ford Fiesta, have significantly influenced the EcoSport's body and interior design.
