The Ford EcoSport is new to the company’s U.S. lineup and takes the spot of the outgoing Fiesta. This compact crossover SUV is an updated version of the same model sold overseas, and Ford built it on the same platform as the Fiesta. Here are some features of the all-new 2018 Ford EcoSport.
Trim Levels and Exterior Look
The EcoSport arrives with Ford’s new hexagonal shaped grille, and updated headlights and fog lights. It will come in four different trim levels including the S, SE, SES, and the Titanium. The rear hatch of the EcoSport opens sideways instead of up because in the other markets the full-size spare sits on the outside of the rear door. In the U.S., Ford eliminated the full-size spare to make it easier to see out the rear window. The SES trim is the sporty model and gets unique accents both inside and out: 17-inch alloy wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension. It also comes with rain-sensing windshield wipers.
The Engine
All the trims except for the SES will come standard with a 1-liter turbo three-cylinder engine that produces 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. The SES will come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 140 horsepower and 137 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can opt for the 2.0-liter on the other trims. Both of these engines come standard with front wheel drive, but you can opt for all-wheel drive with the 2.0-liter.
The Technology
The EcoSport features a floating touch screen infotainment system that sits up on top of the dash. A four-inch screen comes standard on the base S trim, but Ford offers a six-inch screen for the SE and an eight-inch screen for the SE with the Convenience package and the Titanium trim. All the models except for the S come with Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The S gets Bluetooth and USB MP3 connectivity. Upgrade to the Titanium for a nine-speaker stereo system along with the features of the Convenience package which includes Sync Connect so you can use an app to lock and unlock the car, locate it in a parking lot, and start it remotely.
The Interior
The EcoSport’s cabin feels spacious for a compact vehicle. There will be up to 30 different storage bins, including a shelf above the glove box for small items, and a slot in the glove compartment for the owner’s manual. You can also open a vent in the glove box and use the air conditioning to cool it down. The rear seat has a 60/40 split and folds down flat with just a few adjustments when you need extra cargo space.
Safety Features
The EcoSport will offer AdvanceTrac and Hill Start Assist systems, Auto start-stop Technology, and a blind-spot information system with rear-cross traffic alert.
The new 2018 Ford EcoSport has a lot to offer in a small package. It comes with the latest technology and a sporty look, along with a choice of engines with plenty of power. Look for it to hit dealership floors in early 2018.
“2018 Ford EcoSport SE” by Loganville Ford
