Jump to content
News
Reviews
Discussons
Activity
Create New...
Close

  • đź’¬ Join the Conversation

    CnG Logo SQ 2023 RedBlue FavIcon300w.png
    Since 2001, Cheers & Gears has been the go-to hub for automotive enthusiasts. Join today to access our vibrant forums, upload your vehicle to the Garage, and connect with fellow gearheads around the world.

     

  • William Maley
    William Maley

    By William Maley •

    Ford Throws Its Hat Into Subcompact Crossover Ring With 2018 EcoSport

      Ford's crossover lineup now comes in extra-small

    The subcompact crossover is growing at quick pace with a number of automakers either selling or planning to introduce a model. Case is point is Ford which last night in Los Angeles debuted a revised version of the EcoSport subcompact crossover.

    Built on the bones of the Fiesta, the revised EcoSport looks like an Escape hit with shink-ray. Compared to the current model sold overseas, Ford has changed the front and rear fascias, and updated the head and taillights. We don't get the external rear-mounted spare tire like in other markets, but the the side-hinged rear tailgate remains.

    The interior will come with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Ford’s Sync 3 software. This means it will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatability. The EcoSport is also gadget friendly with two USB ports and a 12-volt power outlet up front, an optional 110-volt outlet, and another 12-volt outlet for rear passengers. Ford has also somehow managed to cram 30  storage pockets, bins, and hooks of different sizes in the EcoSport's interior.

    Front-wheel drive models will feature the 1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder and all-wheel drive models get a 2.0L four-cylinder. No power figures are available for either engine. Both will get a six-speed automatic as standard.

    You'll have to wait till early 2018 if you want to get your hands on the EcoSport.

     

    Source: Ford
    Press Release is on Page 2

    GO SMALL, LIVE BIG WITH ALL-NEW ECOSPORT - FORD'S SMALLEST SUV WITH THE BIGGEST PERSONALITY

    • Ford introduces all-new EcoSport for North America today during the world’s first-ever Snapchat vehicle reveal; event kicks off a three-day interactive experience in Hollywood open to the public through Wednesday
    • Fun, capable and connected, EcoSport gives drivers the freedom and versatility to go small and live big
    • Technology – including SYNC 3 with a high-resolution 8-inch floating touch screen, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ – easily integrates your smartphone and keeps you connected to friends and family while on the move

    LOS ANGELES, Nov. 14, 2016 – Ford today introduces the all-new EcoSport for North America for those who want space-saving convenience and SUV capability.

    The EcoSport – a fun, capable, connected compact SUV – stars in the world’s first-ever vehicle reveal on Snapchat, kicking off a Hollywood pop-up event open to the public through Wednesday evening.

    The interactive event showcases how EcoSport is a perfect companion for those who believe in going small and living big.

    “More people are choosing to spend their time and money sharing experiences with friends and family instead of buying more stuff,” said Chantel Lenard, ‎executive director, Ford U.S. marketing. “EcoSport fits perfectly into this growing lifestyle. It’s our smallest SUV, packed with features and personality.”

    Fun sound, color and style
    EcoSport’s available premium B&O PLAY audio system brings your music to life. HARMAN acoustic engineers spent hundreds of hours perfecting the in-vehicle music experience.  

    The Ford-exclusive B&O PLAY audio system, standard on EcoSport Titanium, features 10 speakers, including B&O PLAY-branded tweeters and woofers in the front doors and a subwoofer in back. The 675-watt system unlocks the power of your favorite music and transforms every drive into a “living big” experience.

    EcoSport also features available HD Radio technology, SiriusXM® satellite radio and a dual FM radio antenna that boosts the range and clarity of FM signals.

    Customers looking to stand apart from the crowd will find plenty of ways to personalize their EcoSport. Along with 10 exterior color choices, there are seven ambient lighting options and four trim level offerings – S, SE, SES and Titanium. All series feature a swing-gate-style tailgate.

    The personality-packed SES series makes the biggest splash. It features Intelligent 4WD, sport-tuned suspension and steering, and unique styling cues inside and out – including bold copper accents for the interior and sport seats.

    Connected technology
    EcoSport makes it easy to stay in touch with friends and family with SYNC® 3, Ford’s communications and entertainment system. Faster, more intuitive and easier to use, the system provides more conversational voice recognition and enhanced response to driver commands. Optimized for hands-free use, SYNC 3 for EcoSport is coupled with a touch screen similar to a smartphone or tablet. The 8-inch screen gives front-row occupants easy access to operate available Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ commands, and B&O PLAY audio settings.

    Drivers also have the ability to start, lock, unlock and locate their vehicle from almost anywhere using available SYNC Connect with FordPass®. The mobile app lets owners view vehicle information, such as the fuel level and odometer reading, when not in the vehicle.

    EcoSport features two fast-charging USB ports to ensure owners’ devices are always juiced. Plus, there’s a 12-volt power outlet. An available 110-volt outlet positioned behind the center console and another 12-volt outlet allow rear-seat passengers to stay plugged in, too.

    Capable, powerful and sporty
    Equipped with either the award-winning, 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost® or 2.0-liter four-cylinder, EcoSport provides power and control. Drivers opting for the 2.0-liter engine get Ford’s Intelligent 4WD standard. Both come with six-speed automatic transmissions.

    As many as 30 stowage pockets, bins, hooks make efficient use of every interior inch. A cargo management system at the rear features a movable floor board and fold-away second-row seats to provide a flat area for moving furniture and other larger items.

    The all-new Ford EcoSport starts arriving in dealerships in early 2018.

    Go to articles

    User Feedback

    Recommended Comments

    ccap41

    Not bad but not great looking. I think the CX-3 looks best in the segment still.

    I hope the 1.0T has enough ass to lug around a less aerodynamic CUV as opposed to a car. I would bet the 2.0 will be the volume engine as it just sounds better suited.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    Drew Dowdell

    You know what would sell me? This right here...

    You have no idea how much superior a side opening tailgate is compared to a lift back until you own both.  The side opening hatch on my old CR-V is sooooo much better than the Encore liftback for loading and unloading stuff. 

     

    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    ccap41
    5 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

    You know what would sell me? This right here...

    You have no idea how much superior a side opening tailgate is compared to a lift back until you own both.  The side opening hatch on my old CR-V is sooooo much better than the Encore liftback for loading and unloading stuff. 

     

    Really? Why is it that much better?

    I noticed it and thought it was a really neat/different feature but I didn't really know why they would do that? Or what the benefit of a swinging hatch or a liftgate.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    Drew Dowdell
    2 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

    Really? Why is it that much better?

    I noticed it and thought it was a really neat/different feature but I didn't really know why they would do that? Or what the benefit of a swinging hatch or a liftgate.

    Honestly, I have a hard time quantifying it.  Keep in mind use my Honda for doing maintence work at my apartment buildings, so I'm always hauling tool boxes, supplies, etc. in it. It's just easier to do in the Honda than any of the liftbacks.  It's not something I can really explain... it's just something I live with. 

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    Frisky Dingo

    The swing gate is a big drawback for people who live in the city and have to often parallel park.

     

    My Rav has a swinging hatch, and I like it. It's something that would make or break a vehicle purchase for me, though.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    ccap41
    19 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

    Honestly, I have a hard time quantifying it.  Keep in mind use my Honda for doing maintence work at my apartment buildings, so I'm always hauling tool boxes, supplies, etc. in it. It's just easier to do in the Honda than any of the liftbacks.  It's not something I can really explain... it's just something I live with. 

    I could see the ups and downs to it. The thing that I wouldn't like is just parking in general in a parking lot. I feel like there isn't enough room for somebody to park behind you and open your tailgate.

    I think it really depends on the owners' needs and what they use it for.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    Drew Dowdell
    3 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

    I could see the ups and downs to it. The thing that I wouldn't like is just parking in general in a parking lot. I feel like there isn't enough room for somebody to park behind you and open your tailgate.

    I think it really depends on the owners' needs and what they use it for.

    Yeah, if you know you're going to be loading stuff up at Home Depot, you need to remember to park ass out... but it is a small price to pay for the overall convenience. 

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    A Horse With No Name
    6 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

    I could see the ups and downs to it. The thing that I wouldn't like is just parking in general in a parking lot. I feel like there isn't enough room for somebody to park behind you and open your tailgate.

    I think it really depends on the owners' needs and what they use it for.

    This is why I liked the tail gates on 1960's and 1970's station wagons.

    They would often open either way....made for good tailgating before a football game!

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    G. David Felt
    5 hours ago, Drew Dowdell said:

    You know what would sell me? This right here...

    You have no idea how much superior a side opening tailgate is compared to a lift back until you own both.  The side opening hatch on my old CR-V is sooooo much better than the Encore liftback for loading and unloading stuff. 

     

    But the Lift Back keeps you protected from the Rain and Snow according to GM! :P

    The best tailgate that I believe GM and FORD used was the split stagecoach door minis with a lift gate glass section.

    SafariRearEnd.jpg

    ExcursionRearEnd.JPG

    This is what I think is the best access for all CUVs & SUVs.

    I wish my Suburban and Escalade had this kind of rear end opening.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    Guest Wings4Life(BANNED)

    Guest Wings4Life(BANNED)

    Posted

    One of my Explorers had a lift open window in addition to the hatch.  Very, very useful.  Wish they would bring it back.  It was great, if someone parked so close that they touched your bumper, you could still put your groceries in the back. And best part is, they don't roll out when you open the whole hatch.  And then there is the functional use, where lumber or such could hang out with the hatch closed.  Very cool.

    If the EcoSport had an opening glass, that would be very useful.  Does it?  Can anyone confirm it does not, on the Eu model?

     

     

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    ocnblu

    More awkwardly proportioned than the GM mini utes.  Love the blackout package though... and that back door is fantastic.  Easier to open and close than a hatch... can be safely opened in a garage without hitting the garage door opener track, etc etc...

     

    Seems like my predictions for this were true... the removal of the spare tire (if it has one) from the back door... and a naturally aspirated engine.  woot

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    ccap41
    3 hours ago, Wings4Life said:

     

    One of my Explorers had a lift open window in addition to the hatch.  Very, very useful.  Wish they would bring it back.

     

    I wish my Escape had that! The last gen Escapes had that and I think it is a great idea.

    3 hours ago, ocnblu said:

    More awkwardly proportioned than the GM mini utes.  Love the blackout package though... and that back door is fantastic.  Easier to open and close than a hatch... can be safely opened in a garage without hitting the garage door opener track, etc etc...

     

    Seems like my predictions for this were true... the removal of the spare tire (if it has one) from the back door... and a naturally aspirated engine.  woot

    But can it be opened with the garage door closed? 

    So many advantages and disadvantages of the swinging door. I'm kind of up in the air about it as of now. 

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    ocnblu
    6 hours ago, ccap41 said:

    I wish my Escape had that! The last gen Escapes had that and I think it is a great idea.

    But can it be opened with the garage door closed? 

    So many advantages and disadvantages of the swinging door. I'm kind of up in the air about it as of now. 

    Vehicle itself is only 4 feet long, so yes, it should open in a closed garage.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    A Horse With No Name
    2 hours ago, ocnblu said:

    Vehicle itself is only 4 feet long, so yes, it should open in a closed garage.

    Visually it does have the proportions of a Smart car or Fiat 500....I find myself alternately loving and hating these small eggs on wheels.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    ccap41
    2 hours ago, ocnblu said:

    Vehicle itself is only 4 feet long, so yes, it should open in a closed garage.

    I guess for some reason I was thinking Escape and not the EcoSport. Or just anything larger would have troubles opening in a closed garage.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    A Horse With No Name
    2 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

    I guess for some reason I was thinking Escape and not the EcoSport. Or just anything larger would have troubles opening in a closed garage.

    As a guy who lives in a city and often has to parallel park or park in tight situations, i am actually liking the number of shorter vehicles that car makers are bringing out.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    daves87rs

    My thoughts on it...

    Baby Escape (not a bad thing since I like the new Escape quite a bit)

    Coming built from India (why Ford, with these tarted up should pull a nice profit here in the US) Though my gut tells me Ford is either treating this like an A) Fad or B) Risk because they are not sure how will do here.

     

    With the way it looks, people are going to be able to do things with this thing..and having friends overseas who are laughing that folks will try to put this trucklet to use here...It is TINY. Great for grandma or a trip to the mall, useless for anything else....

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites
    surreal1272
    On 11/15/2016 at 3:46 PM, dfelt said:

    But the Lift Back keeps you protected from the Rain and Snow according to GM! :P

    The best tailgate that I believe GM and FORD used was the split stagecoach door minis with a lift gate glass section.

    SafariRearEnd.jpg

    ExcursionRearEnd.JPG

    This is what I think is the best access for all CUVs & SUVs.

    I wish my Suburban and Escalade had this kind of rear end opening.

    The Ford Flex had the same setup in certain trims. That was my favorite feature of it. 

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites


    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
    Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

    Guest
    Add a comment...

    ×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

      Only 75 emoji are allowed.

    ×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

    ×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

    ×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

    ×



  • Support Real Automotive Journalism

    Cheers and Gears Logo

    Since 2001, Cheers & Gears has delivered real content and honest opinions — not emotionless AI output or manufacturer-filtered fluff.

    If you value independent voices and authentic reviews, consider subscribing. Plans start at just $2.25/month, and paid members enjoy an ad-light experience.*

    You can view subscription options here.

    *a very limited number of ads contain special coupon deals for our members and will show

  • Similar Content

  • Posts

    • G. David Felt
      2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V: Cadillac's New Pocket Rocket

      By G. David Felt · Posted

      So did a little research on this and I see Cadillac does post this on their website, but I also verified with a stop in at my local Cadillac dealership. You can drive around in normal mode and get 300 hp with 354 lb-ft of torque as the normal mode programming allows. This is default for all trim levels of Optiq including the V.  Pressing the v mode button on the steering wheel is much like my Kia with drive mode. You can go into the various drive modes including Velocity Max with a 0 to 60mph in 3.5 seconds using the full 519 HP / 650 lb-ft of torque. In playing with it, it is noticeable the change in performance from Normal mode to Tour, Snow/Ice, Sport, My Mode, and Velocity Max mode.  Brotherton Cadillac did NOT have a Optiq-V yet on the lot, but they did have the Optiq in Luxury, Sport1 and Sport 2. The Sport 1 and 2 trims has the default of Sport drive mode where the Luxury has Tour mode as default. Now the item was was wanting to verify, was exactly what even the service department could not verify as their own documentation does not say what the various HP/Torque are for each drive mode. We just have default 300/354 for Tour and V-MAX of 519/650. At least this gives us a better understanding of if you need or want the extra power while driving, change into sport or V-Max mode if you have a V and then stomp on the accelerator.
    • G. David Felt
      Random Thoughts Thread

      By G. David Felt · Posted

      Just not GM Loyalty card, their points program as well as other bank rewards programs. Seems Everyone is wanting to go cheap and give minimal for customer loyalty. Making me rethink many programs. I have started to stop and quit a few as the changes are not worth the hassle. 
    • regfootball
      Random Thoughts Thread

      By regfootball · Posted

      So, it seems like they are screwing around with the GM Card again.    https://news.gm.com/home.detail.html/Pages/news/us/en/2025/may/0520-GM-enhances-loyalty-program-unveils-GM-Rewards-Mastercard-Barclays.html are cardholders getting screwed?  I can’t hardly tell from the bull$h!. 
    • regfootball
      2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V: Cadillac's New Pocket Rocket

      By regfootball · Posted

      I would like to see that warm light gray platinum scheme come back.  Not the lighter cool cream color. 
    • G. David Felt
      Random Thoughts Thread

      By G. David Felt · Posted

      First off, I am NOT wanting this to be political about our current president, but I do acknowledge that some will want to go political on this. Springsteen Fans Walk After Trump Comments | National Circus While i respect those that walked out of his concert, canceled tickets, etc. this I believe brings up a bigger issue. The intelligence to lead a nation and the effects one has on those citizens. Some say #47 is having a positive effect on the U.S. others say he is having a negative effect and the current administration is taking credit for the current low inflation, low unemployment, etc. Yet, what is happening now from an employment, selling price, etc. is actually the effects of the last administration. WHY, most businesses are selling product they ordered back at the end of 2024 at a set price and received before tariffs went into effect. It has always been normal for businesses to have 6 to 9 months of stock on hand unless you are a true little mom and pop shop where you tend to be more month by month. In this regard we have seen the current administration tariff war end in closing down small companies due to no longer being able to afford their products that are produced in China and abandoning the product in China as they cannot afford to pay the higher prices. This bring it to the point I am making in what I believe Bruce Springsteen is calling for, people to think about how businesses are really run, the costs of things to come and the pay to play affect of the current administration. We have seen plenty of battery and EV auto plants now put on hold, we have seen plenty of green energy projects canceled or put on hold.  The effect on the auto industry will affect millions and Tesla just announced a minimum of 1 week idling of their U.S. assembly plants due to oversupply of EVs. We are coming up on the end of the two-month freeze by auto companies on the prices they sell their auto's for. Will it truly end in big or small price increases? How much of the cost of high tariffs will the companies eat to keep sales going? If you have not repaired your auto at the Dealerships, 3rd party repair places or did the repair yourself buying parts at an auto part store, then you have not felt the increased cost yet, but I can tell you things have gotten much more expensive than they were. Here are the current statistics: Producer Price Index by Industry: Automotive Parts, Accessories and Tire Retailers (PCU44134413) | FRED | St. Louis Fed

  • Who's Online (See full list)

    • There are no registered users currently online

  • My Clubs

Ă—
Ă—
  • Create New...

Important Information

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.

Hey there, we noticed you're using an ad-blocker. We're a small site that is supported by ads or subscriptions. We rely on these to pay for server costs and vehicle reviews.  Please consider whitelisting us in your ad-blocker, or if you really like what you see, you can pick up one of our subscriptions for just $1.75 a month or $15 a year. It may not seem like a lot, but it goes a long way to help support real, honest content, that isn't generated by an AI bot.

See you out there.

Drew
Editor-in-Chief

I've whitelisted
Continue without support

Write what you are looking for and press enter or click the search icon to begin your search