CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,200
Average Price: Around £10,000

Ford EcoSport (2014-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Cheap to run and affordable to buy	Doesn't deliver the sharp drive you'd expect of a Ford
Good choice of petrol and diesel engines	Irritating side-opening tailgate
Improved interior after 2018 facelift	Early cars weren't well equipped

Quick Summary

The Ford EcoSport (2014-present) is a compact SUV that initially disappointed when launched, as Ford attempted to cash in on the booming small SUV market by adapting a model originally designed for its South American division. The early cars suffered from dated styling, an uninspiring interior, and driving dynamics that fell short of Ford's reputation. However, the company responded positively, and the major 2018 facelift significantly improved the model with a more modern interior and better refinement, making it far more competitive. The EcoSport offers adequate interior space with 356 litres of boot capacity (1,238 litres with rear seats folded), though the side-opening tailgate is an annoying practicality quirk that requires space behind the vehicle for access.

Running costs are a genuine strength, with frugal petrol and diesel engines delivering around 40-50mpg in real-world driving, low tax costs (from £30 to £150 annually depending on variant), and affordable servicing from £239. The EcoSport comes well-equipped across its range, with later models featuring Ford SYNC3 infotainment, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the driving experience remains uninspiring compared to rivals like the SEAT Arona or Ford's own Puma, with noticeable body roll and less refined ride quality. As a new car, it's difficult to recommend, but used post-facelift examples offer better value after depreciation has taken its toll.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking affordable running costs, those prioritising practicality and equipment levels, and drivers wanting a spacious compact SUV with low fuel consumption.

Not ideal for: Drivers expecting sharp, engaging handling typical of Ford models, those needing a conventional upward-opening tailgate, or buyers seeking a premium driving experience comparable to newer rivals.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the EcoSport if: You're budget-conscious, seeking affordable running costs, prioritising practicality and equipment levels, or wanting a spacious compact SUV with low fuel consumption.

Consider alternatives if: You expect sharp, engaging handling typical of Ford models, need a conventional upward-opening tailgate, or seek a premium driving experience comparable to newer rivals.

Competitive Position: The Ford EcoSport (2014-present) occupies an awkward middle ground in the compact SUV market. Whilst it offers genuine strengths in affordability, running costs, and equipment levels, it fails to deliver the driving dynamics expected from a Ford badge. The SEAT Arona outperforms it significantly in refinement and handling, whilst the Nissan Juke offers more character and the Peugeot 2008 provides better value deals. Post-facelift EcoSports represent reasonable used buys after depreciation, but new examples struggle to justify their asking price against more accomplished rivals. For budget-focused buyers prioritising practicality over driving engagement, it remains a sensible choice, but enthusiasts should look elsewhere.

Read our full Ford EcoSport Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.