The Ford EcoSport once carved a niche for itself in the burgeoning small SUV segment. However, facing stiff competition from rivals known for their superior driving dynamics like the Suzuki Vitara and the stylish Seat Arona, the latest iteration of the EcoSport needs to significantly elevate its game, especially considering the benchmark set by its stablemate, the Ford Puma – a previous small SUV of the year. The question remains: has the Ford EcoSport evolved enough to warrant consideration in today’s competitive market?
In this comprehensive review, we delve into the 2024 Ford EcoSport, evaluating its performance, handling, practicality including boot space, reliability, and running costs. We aim to provide you with a detailed assessment to determine if this Blue Oval contender deserves a spot on your shortlist. For those already considering the EcoSport, remember to explore our free New Car Deals pages to potentially secure the best possible offers on new small SUVs.
Performance and Driving Experience
Engine Options and Driving Dynamics
Ford offers the EcoSport with a choice of two 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines from their Ecoboost range. For most drivers, the 124bhp Ecoboost 125 variant is likely the sweet spot. This engine is known for its eager revving nature, flexibility, and adequate performance for daily driving and beyond. While a more powerful 138bhp Ecoboost 140 engine exists, it’s exclusively tied to the top-tier ST-Line trim, making it a less accessible and potentially overpriced option for many.
Alt text: Close-up view of the Ford EcoSport’s Ecoboost engine, highlighting its compact and efficient design.
Across the EcoSport range, a six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard. Due to the relatively short gear ratios, drivers will find themselves engaging with the gearbox frequently to maintain optimal performance. Notably, unlike many competitors in the small SUV segment, an automatic transmission is not offered, which might be a drawback for those prioritizing ease of driving in urban environments.
While the engine options provide sufficient power for city and highway driving, the Ford EcoSport’s driving dynamics have been a point of contention in the past. Compared to rivals praised for their agility and engaging handling, the EcoSport has sometimes been perceived as lagging behind. Whether Ford has addressed these handling concerns in the latest model is a crucial aspect we will further explore in our detailed driving assessment. We aim to determine if the 2024 Ford EcoSport delivers a driving experience that can genuinely compete with the best in its class.
