2018 Ford EcoSport Review: Unreliable Small SUV With Expensive Repair Costs As It Ages

Jul 20, 2023

The 2018 Ford EcoSport lasts around 120,000 miles with serious engine and brake system issues reported. At $13,700 to $21,580, it’s cheap, but not worth buying when you’ll spend thousands fixing it over the years.

The Good

Steering is responsive for an SUV, the SYNC 3 technology is easy to use and there’s decent cargo space for its size.

The Bad

The engine is very weak, the cabin has a lot of cheap materials and there’s a lot of blind spots with the large side pillars.

Is the 2018 Ford EcoSport a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 7/10 – 2018 is a bad year for the Ford EcoSport since it has a lot of mechanical problems, and a cheap cabin. Owner reviews complain about a weak engine, electrical problems, and a slow transmission.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are basic for a compact SUV, the seats are reasonably comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also good for its size.
Reliability 6/10 – There are a lot of engine and transmission problems reported on the 2018 EcoSport. In general models from 2018–2020 all have some problems, with improvements for 2021–2022.
Performance 6/10 – Performance is poor from the three-cylinder engine, while the four-cylinder is a little quicker.
Safety 7/10 – The 2018 EcoSport earns 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, while blind spot monitoring is available as an optional upgrade.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 28 MPG, giving 380 miles of range from the 13.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $18 cheaper than average at $179 per month.
Value 7/10 – The 2018 Ford EcoSport is cheaper than many other small SUVs, although rapid depreciation makes it a bad long-term value.

Positive Owner Reviews

Bryana E

Very comfortable and very inviting.

It's awesome! So nice on the road! It rides so smooth and has awesome Bluetooth features. I really like the color of my car it's a very pretty white. My wheel offers button features where I can control the car without taking my hands off the wheel to use the touch screen.

Noreen H

I love my Ford Ecosport SUV, it is just my size. Lots of comfort when driving.

Smaller SUV an just my size. No problems so far. Reliable, comfortable with plenty of legroom. The Vehicle can started it from an app on your smartphone you can lock your doors and you can unlock your doors as well . The app provides vehicle information such as places. To eat, buy gas. Wipers start with rain. Easy to use climate controls, Adjustable steering wheel. Push button to start the suv. Rear parking aid. Easy to use cruise control. Easy to learn and use sync controls. Seats fold in the back to extend the trunk. Four wheel drive. The engine helps to reduce fuel consumption by automatically shutting off and restarting the engine is stopped. The engine starts when you release the brake.

Gary W

Ford ecosport: someone's dream car.

Everything is great. Alignment and steering is a plus. Gas is cheap (25 to fill) but does run out pretty fast (3 fill ups a week minimum). Easy to clean and extremely compact for those wanting to save space. As the name suggests, this mess as me is eco-friendly (whenever the car is running but at stand still, the engine will stop automatically to save gas and start again once the driver releases hold of the brake pad.

Erin W

All the benefits of an SUV in a more compact size.

The size is perfect for me as a single person. I often drive by myself, but it is comfortable for passengers. I appreciate being able to fold the back seats down for when I need to transport bigger items. I appreciate the height of the car as it is easy to get in and out and I have a higher view on the road than a sedan. It is still small enough, however, to get around a city easily.

Amanda G

Review of the ford ecosport.

No problems whatsoever. It takes getting used to the feature that turns off the engine at stop lights, however if necessary that feature can be turned off. The car is a very small SUV, so I wouldn't suggest it for a family vehicle. The storage is extremely limited (I need to put my golf clubs into the backseat). I love it for just hopping around town. It has decent get up and go, and it is very comfortable to drive.

Marriah D

The car overall works great. It is small, but it is taller than most vehicles.

The computer seemed to not work as much. The oil holder seemed to have an issue too, which needed to be fixed multiple times before it finally worked. The car drives really well and I love the screen a lot. The screen can be delayed and had to be replaced once as it wouldn't connect to my phone, no matter how hard we tried.

katie h

The car is extremely environmentally friendly. Even though it's an SUV, it is great on gas mileage.

The only thing i dislike about the vehicle is that it turns off randomly while driving

Derrick T

It can navigate small parking spaces like a compact car.

The ecosport, is the perfect sized vehicle for my needs. It affords me the comfort of an SUV, with the economic size of a compact car. I love the 4WD, and other options I was able to select for it. I have driven it for 8 mos. And have had no performance issues.

Negative Owner Reviews

cindy clark

Heated seats

Don't like. Swing gate ajar aways comes on when you hit a bump so thats all the time. Don't like the shut off when you stop to me that waste gas. They say it saves don't know how. Passager side is a b***h to get in if your short or old. Can't get running boards or side steps for this. The only good thing is the heated seats

Aleena

Alarm/electrical problems

Since I purchased my vehicle just shy of 2 years ago, it was been having alarm problems. When I lock the door and start walking away, the alarm goes off. While the key is flat, in my hand. When I try to turn off, I have to walk back about 10-15 feet before it will work. At first, nobody believed me. Multiple trips. Then my electrical started doing funny things. Lights would randomly shut off while driving in the dark, radio/navigation would glitch out, computer would constantly kick my phone off. Again, got nowhere. They finally replaced the remote start module, lasted a few days and alarms came back. I have lost track of how many phone calls and attempts to get this dealt with. They would say "we will get back to you" and nothing. Finally managed to get it escalated to an assistant manager. He took it for a week to check it. They replaced the remote start module again. Next day alarms were back. "We will get back to you" 3 weeks I reach out again, "we will get back to you". I'm so done with this company.

Chad S

No power. Seats are comfortable with lots of legroom and such. Needs more engine power.

Bad fuel economy

Katie F

The car is too small. Do not buy this vehicle, worst one we have ever owned.

It is too small, it is not comfortable. The dealership overcharged 10k on it and we are now upside down. Been trying to get rid of it for 3 months now.

Jonathan F

Don't like it

Have had issues with it the first month I had it was in shop several times. Very sluggish when it shifts into gears and not what I expected at all only got it because dealership told me it was the only vehicle I was able to finance however found out that was all lies I originally wanted the escape or focus. Trust me there is alot of issues or atleast with the one I got and base model in Canada EcoSport S 2018 the charged me 25,800 plus tax and added maintenance plan I didn't ask for came to 39k way over priced yet they didn't allow me to atleast have titanium or model with sunroof and leather seats just my opinion and horrible on gas

Jaimie O

Apple carplay is the biggest plus.

Very unreliable, had issues with the electric system for the transmission. The car does do okay in the snow but still skids. Gas levels are not always correct and has a really small gas tank. This would be good for a single person that does not have kids or for a first car, but long term this car is not good at all.

Todd stevens

Severe Engine Failure

Didn't even know that Ford had this vehicl. Until my wife saw the vehicle she wanted it so we bought it a few months back used. Ford Certified with about 50,000 miles on it 2018 now a few months later complete engine failure the fuel pump went out they found no oil in the oil filter the engine had to be tore down how many parts have to be replaced very disappointing I was concerned about a three-cylinder engine in the beginning I'm completely concerned about the whole car moving forward once this gets fixed still in the shop going on two weeks you can bet that Ford still wants a payment unbelievable has never happened to me ever and buying a car at the dealer had return to tear the engine down such low mileage

Kim C

Ecosport - worst vehicle ever!

Problems with vehicle since the first few months. Not a reliable vehicle. Had to have a total new engine replacement and dashboard issues. This vehicle has been in the shop for issues more than any combination of previously owned cars. Looking forward to trading it in as soon as possible.

What Do Critics Say About the Ford EcoSport?

Consumer Reports says the EcoSport offers a nimble driving experience compared to other SUVs, but has lower than average owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the EcoSport at 3.8/5, enjoying the good cargo space for its size, but doesn’t like the weak base engine.
Kelley Blue Book users give the EcoSport a 4.3/5, praising the good all-wheel drive system in the snow, but owners don’t like the lack of passenger room.

What Common Problems Does the 2018 Ford EcoSport Have?

Common problems found on the 2018 Ford EcoSport include a sudden loss of oil pressure, the brakes locking up, along with door lock issues. Overall, these problems are worse than other small SUVs, leading to more expensive repair costs as the EcoSport ages.

A sudden loss of oil pressure is the most widespread complaint on the 2018 Ford EcoSport, showing up at around 65,000 miles. The turbo and oil lines are known to suffer from catastrophic failure, which causes the engine to seize up due to a loss of oil. Replacing the engine and turbo costs over $4,500, depending on local labor rates.

The brakes locking up while driving is another problem mentioned by EcoSport owners at around 10,000 miles. There are brake booster issues which cause the system to lock up and fail. Replacing the brake booster is another costly project, which is around $1,200.

Door lock issues also show up on some EcoSport models within the first 2,000 miles. The problem is usually caused by the door lock control module, which is known to short out, and blow a fuse. Replacing the fuse costs around $5, but if there are serious problems with the control module it’s around $650 to change.

There’s one recall on the 2018 Ford EcoSport, which is better than some other small SUVs. The one recall covers the brake fluid cap, but only on 273 models. Ford will replace the brake fluid cap on affected models for free.

How Long Will the 2018 Ford EcoSport Last?

A well-maintained 2018 Ford EcoSport can last around 120,000 miles, which is much worse than other small SUVs like the Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to the competition according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $386 per year.

As a used 2018 Ford EcoSport reaches 70,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the oxygen sensor for $180, heater hose costing $500, along with the engine front cover gasket which costs $1,150.

Stephanie M

It is reliable. I have not had any problems with the vehicle. It does have limited leg room in the back.

Peggy P

Yes it is reliable. No problems so far. I am not a fan of the gas saver feature but I am able to turn it off each time I turn the car on.

Ray R

It is very reliable as long as you keep up with the oil changes and average maintenance of a vehicle.

Katie P

It is very reliable. I have not had any problems. The app is fantastic for checking fluids and tire pressure.

Max B

The Ecosport is very reliable in snow and ice. Easy to drive and easy to park. I have no problems with the vehicle.

Lauren M

Yes. I have not had any problems at all yet. It runs well, and I like the automatic engine shut off when brake is engaged.

Jennifer K

I only had a problem with the speed but after some changes in space and other things I could resolve an continue driving

Joshua S

It is reliable. Brand new.I haven't had any issues with it and the warranty is great. Also fordpass keeps me up to date on the maintenance and makes it easy to get done

How Is the Technology?

Standard entertainment technology is fairly basic, offering a relatively small 4.2-inch central display with Bluetooth connectivity. Optional technology upgrades are good with a 6.5-inch touchscreen which has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

There’s a standard rearview camera, which is less than some of the competition.

Optional safety upgrades include rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, along with rear cross traffic alert.

Is the 2018 Ford EcoSport a Good Value?

No, the 2018 Ford EcoSport is not a good value since there are a lot of engine problems reported by owners. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $13,700 to $21,580, making it less than a Honda CR-V or Subaru Crosstrek. When new, the price range was $19,995 to $27,330. Depreciation is worse than other SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Ford EcoSport?

There are four main models of the 2018 Ford EcoSport offered from the entry-level S through to the more luxurious Ecosport Titanium. The EcoSport also comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.

S is the entry-level model with:

16-inch alloy wheels
Automatic headlights
Hill start assist
Remote locking and unlocking
Full power accessories
Rearview camera
Air conditioning
Cruise control
Driver information display
Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
Height-adjustable front seats
60/40-split rear seats
Cargo cover, removable cargo floor panel
Front floor mats
Bluetooth connectivity
2-inch central display screen
Six-speaker audio system with two USB ports

SE is a step up, adding:

LED running lights
Fog lights
Body-colored exterior accents
Roof rails
Rear privacy glass
Rear parking sensors
Sunroof
Keyless entry and ignition
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Upgraded driver information display
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
Six-way power-adjustable driver seat with manual lumbar
Heated front seats
Upgraded cloth upholstery
Rear floor mats
5-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 interface
Satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto functionality
Optional 17-inch wheels

SE with Convenience Package:

Includes all features of the SE trim
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
Interior ambient lighting
Navigation system
8-inch touchscreen
Seven-speaker audio system
110-volt household-style power outlet

SES is next in the lineup with:

Includes all features of the SE with Convenience package
0-liter engine and all-wheel-drive
17-inch wheels
Sport-tuned suspension
Black exterior styling elements
Automatic wipers
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles
Leather seats with cloth inserts

Titanium is the flagship model which has:

Includes all features of the SE with Convenience package
17-inch wheels
Body-colored bumpers
Heated mirrors
Automatic wipers
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Full leather upholstery
Blind-spot monitoring
10-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with HD radio

Additional options available on all models except S

Cold Weather package: Heated mirrors, a heated steering wheel, a windshield wiper de-icer and floor mats
Keyless entry keypad and remote engine start

S Sport

166 HP 25 MPG

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SE Sport

166 HP 25 MPG

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SES Sport

166 HP 25 MPG

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Titanium Sport

166 HP 25 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Ford EcoSport?

The base engine is a 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine. This turbocharged power plant delivers 123 horsepower and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The estimated fuel economy for this engine is 28 miles per gallon. Due to its relatively modest power output, its 0-60 mph time is on the slower side, approximately taking around 11 seconds.
For those who want a bit more power, Ford offers an upgraded 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine churns out 166 horsepower and also comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter engine’s fuel economy is slightly lower, estimated at 25 miles per gallon. However, it offers more pep and can go from 0-60 MPH in about 10 seconds.

What Colors Does the Ford EcoSport Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Ford EcoSport?

The 2018 Ford EcoSport provides a comfortable ride for its passengers in several ways. Its compact size offers easy maneuverability on city streets, and the well-tuned suspension smooths out the bumps for a comfortable highway ride. The cabin is designed with comfort in mind, boasting supportive seats with decent cushioning that can accommodate a variety of body types. In the front, the driver and passenger have ample headroom and legroom, allowing for comfortable seating on longer trips.

The rear seats, while a bit tighter compared to larger SUVs, are still decently comfortable for average-sized adults on shorter trips. For optimal comfort, the rear seats would be best suited for children or smaller adults. The high seating position gives passengers a good view of the road, which can also contribute to a sense of comfort and security.

While not the most luxurious option in its class, the 2018 Ford EcoSport offers a comfortable and pleasant ride for both the driver and passengers, making it a practical choice for those seeking a compact SUV.

How Much Storage Space Does the Ford EcoSport Have?

The 2018 Ford EcoSport is a compact SUV that offers a lot of storage space for its size. With the rear seats in place, you can expect to find around 20.9 cubic feet of cargo space. This should be more than enough to hold everyday items such as groceries, small pieces of furniture, or a couple of medium-sized suitcases.

If you need additional space, the EcoSport also offers the ability to fold down the rear seats, which can increase the total cargo volume to around 50 cubic feet. This larger space can accommodate larger objects such as a bicycle, a small kayak, or even a stack of flat-packed furniture. The side-swinging rear door of the EcoSport provides easy access to the cargo area, making the loading and unloading of items a breeze. Overall, while the 2018 Ford EcoSport might not have the most cargo space in its class, it still offers a substantial amount for its compact size, making it a practical choice for many drivers.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The first generation of the Ford EcoSport was introduced for the 2018 model year as a smaller SUV that is below the Ford Escape.

2018: First model year for the Ford EcoSport with all new styling, engine, and technology.

2019: More standard features added to the lineup.

2020: Standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and 8-inch touchscreen standard on SE models.

2021: Power driver’s seat standard on SES and Titanium models, minor exterior styling changes.

2022: Standard all-wheel drive on all models, base turbocharged engine removed.

How Does the Ford EcoSport Compare to the Competition?

The 2018 Ford EcoSport is a very bad compact SUV since it has more mechanical issues than the competition, while also being extremely basic, making it one buyers should avoid.

The Ford Escape is a slightly larger compact SUV available from Ford for $1,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Ford Escape, while the Ford EcoSport offers slightly more responsive steering. We recommend the Ford Escape for most buyers since it lasts longer, making it worth the extra cost.

The Chevy Trax is another small SUV which is available in the same price range. Reliability ratings are slightly better on the Chevy Trax, while the Ford Escape has some more cargo room behind the rear seats. We recommend the Chevy Trax, but in general there are much better SUVs on the market.

Ranks #22 Compact SUV by Owners

2018 Kia Niro

4.71

Tie

2018 Subaru Forester

4.69

2018 Ford EcoSport

4.21

Do Owners Recommend the Ford EcoSport?

Stephanie M

Yes. It is great on gas and a great size for a young and small family. It is easy to maintain and has great features.

Peggy P

Yes, it is fun to drive, easy to park but not much room in the back seat. It has a gas saver feature when you stop at red lights.

Ray R

It is a great vehicle that is small like a car feel but also has great space for an SUV feel. Both aspects make is a great fit for someone who does not want a large vehicle with the safety of a larger vehicle.

Katie P

I absolutely love it. I like the room and ride. No complaints. This was a definite upgrade from my last vehicle. The titanium package is a real treat.

Maryam M

I am very happy with the Ecosport. It is the right amount of vehicle for me to handle. Works great in snow and has a nice size trunk.

Bonnie K

Yes, I enjoy my new car. It has good visibility and good gas mileage. I like all of the new tech, especially CarPlay.

Roberta M

Yes is a good vehicle because is comfortable and you can be safe driving in this car and you can take off your family and whenever you want

Joshua C

Yes it gets great mileages and also is up to date with technology and nicely priced.I enjoy the way it drives and how it is fuel efficient. Price again is amazing. And it’s four wheel drive.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Tony C on July 19, 2021

2018 ecosport ses

I have owned this car for 2 years with 14k miles and no problems so far. Car runs great not a lot of room in back seat but able to put 2 grandchildren with car seats back there. Pretty much what I expected from a smaller suv. Only Complaint I have that there is no spare tire. Wish Ford would of left one on rear door like it originally designed. Will never buy another car without one! Thats why I gave 4 star rating.

Jean C on July 19, 2021

2018 Ecosport

Bought it in 2019now has 14000 miles on it with no problems. Gas milage is around 25 mpg mostly city driving. Haven't had any problems that I see in other reviews but the radio does revert to same am station every so often. Only complaint is no spare tire. Ford what were you thinking.

Michael Z on June 25, 2021

Super eco friendly. CarPlay is extremely useful and easy to use.

There is no go to this car. When driving on the highway it is difficult to overtake a slow driver. Even with the accelerator to the floor, the car loses speed while going up a small gradient. It is also incredibly small in the backseat. No real trunk space. Everything else is good and acceptable.

Kaliah R on June 24, 2021

Soft, modern, beautiful, and worth the money.

The problem with my vehicle is literally nothing I can think of... There is check ups here and there but other than that, it is perfect! It does not mean you will not encounter any problems tho, I just didn't ever since I got it. The performance is wonderful, last long, and worth it. The comfort makes you feel safe. The seats are soft for your behind to drive in, it basically feels like you are cuddled up in a warm blanket.

Chelsea S on June 24, 2021

The ecosport is a good first timer vehicle.

It chugs when it is cold out. The auto start/ stop is okay at times. It drives smooth on the highways. Gas is only 14 mpg and maybe 15 on the highway. It is smaller and more compact than the escape which is what I was going for, but it is not as roomy. I got it for a dog mobile. The screen on the front is very cool and easy to use.

Ashley H on June 22, 2021

Ford ecosport pros and cons.

Performance and reliability are great, in fact I was impressed that when we were caught in a surprise snow storm on our way to Idyllwild, we were one of the few vehicles that didn't get stuck. The all wheel drive really saved us. The only issue I have with our ecosport is the size. We had an escape last time and it was much roomier. I didn't realize how small the interior is and how little we can fit until after we signed the lease. When 4 people are in the car, we can fit little else. Taking a family trip requires a roof rack. Even when there are 2 of us traveling, there's really no place to put phones, purses, etc. For this reason, I would not be interested in the same vehicle again.

Jeremy O on June 17, 2021

For a small economy car it has a sporty look and a wider stance.

The only issues I have experienced is the electronics and I could use a little more legroom in the back. This car is definitely not made for older kids or for adults to occupy the backseat. The radio will not save some of the selections and every time I start it I have to turn it back to my favorite stations. This specific model does not have a turbo, I would definitely recommend buying a model with a turbo. I have had no issues with reliability. Other than that the car is a great runner, good gas mileage and will handle any kind of terrain.

Payton D on June 17, 2021

Ford ecosport review: bad/good.

Ecosports are mainly for a smaller group/ family. There is not much room in the vehicle itself. The engine is a bit groggy, and it has a 11 gal fuel tank. What I do like about the car is that it has gone through a lot of issues, but is still going. It is a newer car, so I am glad it is still running. It does not like the rain/cold weather. Random alarms will start going off. Oh and it is a gas saver, so it has the button that starts and stops the car if you are at a stop.

Cody T on June 16, 2021

All wheel drive SUV with great gas mileage.

I love my car, it serves its purpose well by getting me from point a to point b. It has plenty of space when you need it. I have drove it over 30,000 miles and in different states. It has nice speakers, 4wd AWD, cloth seats, Bluetooth capability and much more.

Lee Stottlemyer on June 14, 2021

Enjoy my Ecosport

I purchased the 2018 Ecosport as a vehicle for my wife and I to use on trips, and daily driving. It's difficult to buy a nice vehicle that my wife likes. She doesn't like leather interior, and she is happy with the cloth seats in the Ecosport. We don't mind the small storage area that most complain about when reviewing the vehicle. There is enough room for us and our belongings when we go on trips when we fold down the back seat. The Ecosport has enough power, and the AWD works great in the snow. Everyone likes the "hearse" door on the back of the vehicle and no more bumping my head on tailgate.

Scott B on June 1, 2021

Ecosport frustrating for It's owner.

The vehicle is great on gas mileage but every time I get home and shut the car off, it restarts by itself. It is the most frustrating vehicle I have ever owned. Also, I am still not used to the engine stopping at every traffic light, stop sign, and any other time I stop the vehicle.

Tanya L on May 17, 2021

The car looks great handles great on the road. Gets great gas mileages.

I have no problems with the car it's great. The gas mileage is great cheap on gas and I can take the car on a trip and not worry about having any trouble with it. I would tell anyone who is looking for a new car I would tell them ecosport is the way to go because it's affordable and handles great on the road.

JacobTeeler on May 16, 2021

Great daily driver, average in all respects

I've had my Ecosport S for a little over a year now, 16k miles on the clock. Nothing has really gone wrong with it at all. The seals in the doors are sagging a little, but thats probably because im a door slammer. This little car is good basic transportation. Im five foot eleven and its pretty comfortable to drive, but not so comfortable to try and recline in during your lunch break. The pedals are a bit close together, so be careful when driving with boots on. All the trim on the interior is pretty solid. Gauge cluster is really nice, functions are great (Oil life monitor is very nice, active tire pressure monitoring is as well). I've tested the Average MPG over several weeks and its accurate to within a gallon (So, good enough i guess?). Visibility to the sides and rear is actually really good. Mirrors are very large and easy to see through and adjust. Forward visibility is kind of hampered by the A-pillars, but is acceptable. You only really notice it when making shallow turns around the neighborhood, is negligible on the highway. Ride is on the firmer side. It wont leave you sore but its not exactly smooth. Being tall and narrow makes it blow about on the highway if its really windy. It handles pretty well, however. Road feel is a little on the vague side until you get used to it. Once you do its like a go kart. Its based on the fiesta, after all. The start stop can be a little wonky at times, but you can always turn it off. A lot factors into when it'll activate (including engine temperature and outdoor temperature, how you stop and the position of the brake pedal). I've been caught off guard by it before since it deactivates once you take any pressure off the brake pedal at all. Just be mindful of it. People complain about this car being slow but slow is very vague, so im gonna elaborate a little bit on that. Its not so slow that it cant get out of its own way. Around town, in the neighborhood, stoplight to stop light, basically any place where you're not on the highway its actually a nippy little car. All of its power (1.0 ecoboost) Is in the 1500-4000rpm range, so its really just push and go when you're off the highway. When you're on the highway it starts to fail some. If you bury the pedal it will downshift and rev to where theres no real power, all the way to the redline. If you feed in the throttle it actually accelerates pretty well. Make no mistake, its still on the slow side, but if you dont floor it and actually roll the throttle it you can overtake and zip through highway traffic without any issue. If you're in the fast lane and it doesnt want to shift back up into 6th, let off the gas a bit and it'll just cruise happily at 85-90mph. This is a car you have to actually try and drive if you want to get anything out of it on the highway, and its actually rewarding when you do. Getting good fuel economy in this car requires that you actually pay attention to how you drive. People complain about not getting anything near the EPA estimates, and after many weeks of doing my own 'testing' (driving in different ways, different speeds, etc), i can guarentee you that its 100% down to the way you drive. I drive approximately 23 miles to work , with about 8 of that off the highway, one way. I've managed to get 39-ish mpg out of it if i drive smoothly and coast when i can, between 65 and 70mph. If i just drive with the flow of traffic, going 75-80, having to hit the brakes here and there, it drops to 33-35. If i just drive aggressively without concern to fuel consumption (speeding, hard braking, hard acceleration) , it'll drop below 30. On the highway theres really no reason why you should average below something like 33mpg unless you drive like an idiot, even with traffic and the AC blowing, or if you have four overweight adults onboard. In short, the "Bad gas mileage" people spout about this car is nonsense. Try harder, actually drive your car. This is a perfectly adequate daily driver, comfortable enough to get you to and from work, and easy enough to drive around. Great visibility, good stereo, all in all good enough but not outstanding. If you want better gas mileage, either try harder or go buy something else. If you want something faster, go buy something else.

Jeff S. on April 19, 2021

Recommend S only

Got the S class for < $20. Turbo engine is very capable, nice acceleration. Paid $110 for the spare tire on the back (like Jeep). I don't think that's an option any more though. I wouldn't pay for any higher trim model, this is not worth more than $20K. Happy with this car, it is my daily driver.

Judy F on April 3, 2021

It gets great gas mileage when traveling between 50 to 60 mph at a steady pace.

I like the gas mileage, which is excellent. I do wish it had more storage space but we can survive with it for now.

Gabby M on March 30, 2021

Does the job but am disappointed.

This car is a lot smaller than we initially thought. We have a large dog and a baby and there’s barely room for both of them in the back seat. The trunk is really narrow and does not fit a lot of items comfortably. The Bluetooth connectivity cuts out quite often and sometimes we are unable to change our radio settings at all because the screen freezes. This car would be better suited to a single person or a family with just one child and no pets.

Chelsea W on March 28, 2021

Overall a good vehicle but takes some getting used to.

Overall, it is a good solid car. It is easy to drive and comfortable. The only complaint I have is that sometimes the vehicle will jolt when it shifts gears. It does take getting used to because the engine turns off when you stop at stop signs, red lights, etc.

Mary B on March 27, 2021

It is wonderful. I had a plug in hybrid which I loved for the gas savings but needed to have more cargo space and 4 wheel drive.

I love this car/compact SUV. It is comfortable. It looks sleek and sporty. There is decent cargo space and has 4 wheel drive. There are 2 things I would change, a locked gas access door and a lock in the back gate to lock the vehicle after unloading groceries, etc.

Gage E on March 27, 2021

This vehicle is compact and affordable. It also performs very well.

This vehicle is very reliable and comfortable. It also does very well in all weather conditions. It has modern technology and has decent cargo storage capacity. This vehicle is also very economical as far as monthly payment for lease is concerned. I would recommend this car.

Mike S on March 25, 2021

Wood grain leather interior wireless technology fuel efficient.

My ecosport is fuel efficient with leather interior and wood grain. I get up to 40 miles per gallon with a warranty. Also a brand new engine brand new tires. It runs smoothly very reliable and low mileage. My ecosport is advance with new wireless technology connecting my phone to the car.

Phyllis H on March 25, 2021

This is a great winter vehicle.

The vehicle is reliable and fun to drive. It has all wheel drive and gets around good in winter. The color is a beautiful blue. It has heated front seats and a heated steering wheel which we love in winter. The hatch in back opens sideways instead of up so it is easy to load groceries and you do not have to reach in or bend to get them out. It is rather on the small size and you feel that you are sitting on top of each other. There is really no console, just a very small storage. It does not have enough cup holders and they are not really easy to access. It gets good gas mileage.

Kimberly V on March 24, 2021

A small SUV with the same but similar to an escape.

Bought the car brand new and wasn't too keen on it since it was one of those 'I have to buy a car' type situations. Over the past month I have gotten adjusted to it and am liking it more and more. I like that it is not huge and but it is still an SUV. Both front seats adjust up and down manually and it has enough umph for me to get up and go.

shelly S on March 20, 2021

It is great on gas. Very compact so driving around is much easier. Very comfy inside

Great on gas, compact. Dislike the trunk size. Wish it was a little bigger

Breana R on March 17, 2021

Features about 2018 ford ecosport.

Really cheap good car. Good mileage. I got a wonderful price on the car. Has a lot of speed. It has blis. A backup camera. Ability to know if someone is behind me and will beep at me. Comfortable seating. Stylish. I like how the trunk opens up by the tail light. That is something I have never seen before.

Brittney M on March 11, 2021

Compact car with cool features.

One of the best features of the ecosport is the way the back opens up. It is a swing door and opens from underneath one of the tail lights. It is a very reliable car and always gets me where I need to be. The only thing that I do not love about this car is the size. I knew it was small when I signed my lease, but I didn't realize just how small. Luckily, I am mostly in my car by myself, but when there are people in the back, they are crammed. But overall, great car for commuters!

Laura E on March 7, 2021

Adequate vehicle - nothing flashy.

Small trunk space and crowded back seat. Front seat space is great. Weird clicking sound from the trunk area - not mechanical. Another ecosport driver had the same clicking in her car that I knew. Must be a trim issue. It has slow pickup, but it is fine for my in town use.

Todd stevens on March 6, 2021

Severe Engine Failure

Kenny J on March 3, 2021

Good family car but short on space!

Not a bad little vehicle. Great on gas, haven't had any issues with vehicle. Downsides to this vehicle mainly that there's not much room in the back. Went on vacation and had to be very selective of what we took along. Would be nice if there was roof storage. Overall not a bad family car, but only if you have 2 kids.

Kim C on March 2, 2021

Very reliable, I never worry about being left stranded.

Very reliable, low maintenance, easy handling, looks good and moves my family down the road, safely.

Dolly N on March 2, 2021

Bang for your buck, eco-friendly.

I think it does really well for a small car plus it's great for parking, it has really good gas mileage. This model has a sunroof so when it's warm you can open it up and have access to the sun. Also it has GPS. It's very well insulated and it always stay warm.

Tawn C on February 24, 2021

Small, cute, functional, and entertaining.

I have the 1.0 ecoboost engine. It is not powerful by any means but performs well when you need it too. I do not need to race around town but enjoy the shape cornering this vehicles does. Parking Is a breeze and the Sync system is amazing. I get better gas mileage than what the sticker said I would get but that's only if you drive safe and knowledgeable.

Jennifer L on February 22, 2021

I love the Bluetooth hands free feature to make phone calls.

The gas pedal sticks from time to time the transmission will shift hard from time to time. It is gas efficient it is suitably fast for the needs of the highway and I love it. The back seat is able to hold 3 smaller to average people or 2 car seats it is roomy enough for a 3 to 4 person family.

Ari H on February 19, 2021

The ford ecosport ses 2018.

The features are the best. The back view camera is huge and the inside trim is gorgeous. The moonroof is huge. I love the 8 inch screen in the car. One problem that I will get this car would be the auto shut off when you stop at a light or a stop sign and then it takes a while to get back up to speed limit.

Shawn P on February 18, 2021

A glorified focus and not worth the buy or lease.

The car is basically a focus. Has a swing gate, which is hard to operate and not powered, cheap sun visors, and no storage. It is too small to haul anything. The back seats are uncomfortable and there is no leg room. The wipers swipe out causing interference with the view. The cup holders are set too far back and not easily accessible.

Kim C on February 16, 2021

Ecosport - worst vehicle ever!

Jennifer D on January 30, 2021

Great compact sports utility vehicle.

Great mileage and fuel economy. Great amount of room for it is size. Can fit four 6’ adults easily. I love the size as well, fits into compact parking spots. Vehicle sits high enough to make the driver easily see everything in front of it. Perfect for this empty nester.

Leah P on January 26, 2021

Small yet spacious. Wonderful to drive.

Vehicle is perfect size. Has excellent gas mileage. Drove it cross country last year 8200 miles. Roomy enough to sleep in and store travel gear such as tent, supplies, clothing and hygiene products as well as ice chest and food. No issues at all during trip. Does not have spare tire is only drawback. Has sunroof. Stereo is excellent. Really enjoy large screen display with navigation. Connects with certain apps. Connects with apple carplay.

Hallie H on January 26, 2021

My mini-mom car is the best.

The only problem I have with this vehicle is the gas mileage is not as good as I originally was told it would be. Other than that it is a great car for a small family or even a first car for your child. It drives really smooth and great for long distance travel.

Jane K on January 25, 2021

Apple play let's me listen to music or podcasts, apps pop up looks like iPhone.

Great car it drives well and I have had no issues since I purchased it. Another great feature is the app it starts the car, locks, unlocks and gives you all your cars info, oil, tire pressure etc. The only issue is gas tank is very small it does not use a lot of gas but it needs to be filled about every 250 miles.

Mary T on January 20, 2021

2018 Ford Ecosport SE 4WD

My Ecosport Se is perfect for me.It can turn on a dime,the pick up is just unexplainable. It's not showy,but that's my style

David R on January 18, 2021

I love that car and company very much and nice service.

I have a lovely car which one is very good and it has no any problem and I use it very nicely. I wish people should use that car and get lot of feedback with that car. Many people I saw who use that car and get nice feedback from that car. In a one word I love that car and company.

Jessica S on January 18, 2021

Very reliable vehicle that is good on gas.

Love the fact that it has blind spot signals, reverse camera, black interior and exterior, runs smooth, and good on gas. Takes a while to accelerate if your want to drive fast. Has heated seats, navigation, and good room if your up front, but back seats have limited room to stretch.

Jennifer H on January 18, 2021

A crossover that makes you feel comfortable.

The car drives great. It is the feel of a SUV without the height. The only thing I don't like is the trunk area. There is not a lot of room. It's not bad for a trip to the grocery store, but packing everything for a vacation can be rough. I have a toddler so I always have a stroller back there. The heated seats are a big plus. The screen for the radio is big so it makes following a GPS easy when looking at the map.

Marc B on January 16, 2021

Very reliable car works every day

Is a very good car and the gasoline last long time so I recommend this for the people who is looking for a new car

Erica H on January 14, 2021

The ford ecosport is a great mid-size vehicle for the money.

The ford ecosport is a very reliable vehicle and is a good mid-size vehicle for the money. I do wish that the engine was a little bigger and had more power. However, the vehicle does have good features for the price and the seats are comfortable. I have the standard features.

Rod P. on January 13, 2021

GREAT little car

Got it for its small size and 4 wheel drive for winter. For its weight and engine size it gets very descent fuel economy, considering it’s AWD. The rain sensing wipers are a nice option but from time to time they seem to either forget it’s raining or that two rain drops is a down pour, still a good option to get I feel. What I’m not a fan of is the “trunk” door instead of a lift-gate as I found I need to leave my garage door open to unload groceries etc (not fun in -30 weather) but that’s MY fault not Ford’s because if a lift-gate was that important to me I would have upgraded to an Escape. Besides, the vehicle is too short for having both a sunroof and the structural strength for a lift-gate. I test drove it lots and looked at every inch of the vehicle so I just don’t get people that buy a vehicle then complain that it’s slow, does have not enough storage, etc, etc as I have to wonder if they even got in the car and actually drove it before they bought it. Oh, by the way, I HATE not being able to permanently disable the auto engine shut off/start up function they put on most vehicles now. If I don’t hit the disable button (for this run period) the vehicle starts itself a minimum of twenty times when I’m going to work. With that many shutdowns it starts canceling itself because it detects low battery voltage LOL.

Don R. on January 12, 2021

Bad build

I have been a dedicated Ford owner for some time. I have a F150, Focus and this EcoSport. That being said I would not buy again. The car changes radio stations at random, the find car horn goes off at random and a rear door gate that opens on bumps, the biggest problem of all no spare tire. Who is the genius who came up with that idea? Maybe said genius should blow a sidewall in -30 C and find out this wonderful fact. Yes I should have looked closer but who would sell something like that? For the same price point I can get a Dodge, Toyota or just about anything else and I will. Ford may have saved a few hundred dollors but they lost a customer who has spent $100,000 on cars in the last 5 years.

Lyndsey C on January 9, 2021

I love the apple car play.

I love the apple car play with my car. It is very user friendly technology-wise. I also love the spacious trunk, and the backseat is also a great size. The speakers in the car have very good volume. The seats are very comfortable, especially the seat warmers. The rearview camera really helps when backing up and has good-quality imaging.

Ryan J on January 8, 2021

Great car, smoothest ride ever.

Let's start with the mileage, it gets great mileage I only put about 20 in the tank and it lasts what seems forever. The trunk has an amazing amount of space the care does not look bad and it is got some get up and go. It is a very comfortable and smooth ride.

Miss F on January 8, 2021

Ford ecosport - gas saver.

I do not have problems, with my vehicle. Its performance is great - it is definitely a gas saver. My ford ecosport is very reliable. The front seats are comfortable, but the back seat does not have enough room or trunk space. But overall, being single or married with a couple of kids, it will work for a few years.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.