Although originally designed for Ford’s Brazilian market and a popular model elsewhere for years, the Ford EcoSport (pronounced “echo” not “ee-koh”) has never been available for sale in Canada. In the spring of 2018, Ford has made plans to correct that oversight and to unleash their Mighty Mouse CUV onto the Canadian landscape.

Subcompact crossovers are all the rage right now and Ford knows it. They’ve had great luck with the EcoSport in other markets, but knowing the North America marketplace is fierce with competition, engineers gave the spunky little 5-door a facelift and several updates and additions to prepare for its Canadian launch. 

At a glance, the EcoSport looks ready for action, with a chipper, upright stance. It’s almost Hobbit-like in proportions with an unusual amount of ground clearance for a subcompact. Although not a true off-roader, that clearance coupled with available all-wheel drive will make a big difference in drivability during snow season.

You can see why it’s been one of Ford’s best sellers globally, especially in developing countries with tight urban environments. A sibling to Ford’s Fiesta hatchback, you can see the immediate resemblance, but EcoSport has character all its own as well, exuding confidence and an eagerness that’s ready for anything.

Every EcoSport comes in a five-door configuration with a typical crossover silhouette -only much smaller. The truly unique feature is at the rear where instead of a traditional glass up, gate down hatch, you’ll find another door that swings out to the left for easy curbside access.As many as 30 storage 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.

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

The EcoSport will be available with two engine options. A 1.0 litre turbocharged EcoBoost three-cylinder is the only option for two-wheel drive models. Four-wheel drive models will come exclusively with a 2.0 litre four cylinder EcoBoost. Both are mated to a six-speed automatic with SelectShift and both have auto stop-start technology to maximize fuel efficiency.

Standard safety equipment includes 10 airbags, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, SYNC 911 Assist, MyKey programmable key, rearview camera, hill start assist and brake assist. BLIS blind spot system and a reverse sensing system are both also available on certain trims.

Available tech features include SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, B&O PLAY premium audio system with 10 speakers, Intelligent Access with push-button start, power sunroof, rain sensing wipers, keyless-entry keypad, remote engine start and even a heated steering wheel.

The EcoSport will be offered in four trim levels: S, SE, SES, and Titanium. 

To appeal the millennials who are largely driving this category, the Ford EcoSport will be offered in 10 exterior colors and will have seven interior ambient light choices. The EcoSport will also offer a Ford-exclusive 675-watt B&O Play audio system by Harman, which features 10 speakers, including door-mounted tweeters and a rear subwoofer. The EcoSport will also offer Sync 3 infotainment and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. With FordPass, drivers can locate, start, lock, and unlock their vehicle from their phone.

So, think small and go big with Ford’s exciting featherweight SUV, the 2018 EcoSport. Call today and arrange a test drive.