CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,200
Average Price: Around £9,600

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 with its dated design and uninspiring driving dynamics, being based on a South American model. However, Ford responded positively with significant updates, particularly the 2018 facelift, which introduced a far more modern interior and improved overall competitiveness. The car offers adequate interior space with 356 litres of boot capacity (expanding to 1,238 litres with rear seats folded), a comfortable driving position with good elevation, and decent storage throughout. All versions comfortably accommodate four adults.

Running costs are a major strength, with frugal engines and affordable servicing from £239 to £319 annually. The smooth turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engines are preferable to diesel options, averaging around 40mpg in real-world driving, whilst diesel variants achieve closer to 50mpg. Early models benefit from low tax rates (some at just £30 annually), though newer versions cost £150 per year. The post-2018 models feel significantly better to drive with improved refinement, though they still trail more dynamic rivals. Depreciation can be a concern as the EcoSport isn't particularly popular, making used examples better value propositions than new ones.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking affordable running costs, those prioritising practicality and interior space, and drivers wanting a comfortable elevated driving position in a compact SUV.

Not ideal for: Drivers expecting sharp, engaging handling typical of Ford models, those needing easy boot access, or buyers seeking a premium or modern driving experience compared to newer rivals.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the EcoSport if: You're on a tight budget, seeking affordable running costs and low servicing expenses, or prioritising practicality and interior space over dynamic handling.

Consider alternatives if: You expect sharp, engaging Ford-like driving dynamics, require easy boot access, or want a more modern and refined driving experience.

Competitive Position: The Ford EcoSport (2014-present) occupies a challenging position in the compact SUV market. Whilst it excels in affordability and running costs, it falls short against more refined rivals like the SEAT Arona, which offers superior driving dynamics and a more modern feel at a comparable price. The Nissan Juke provides similar practicality with better character, whilst the Peugeot 2008 offers better value deals. The EcoSport's main strength lies in its low running costs and decent equipment levels, particularly post-2018 models. However, for most buyers, the SEAT Arona represents a more compelling proposition, being newer, sleeker, and significantly better to drive. A used EcoSport makes more sense than a new one, as depreciation has already taken its toll, though post-facelift versions are essential to avoid the dated earlier models.

Read our full Ford EcoSport Review

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