Is a Ford EcoSport fuel efficient?
The EcoSport can be a relatively fuel-efficient option in the subcompact SUV segment, especially when equipped with Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which typically yields around the high 20s to around 28 mpg combined in US specifications. The larger 2.0-liter engine is generally less efficient, typically dipping into the mid-20s mpg combined. Real-world results vary with driving conditions, transmission, and market.
To understand how efficient the EcoSport really is, it helps to look at official ratings, engine options, regional differences, and everyday driving performance. This report examines the landscape as of 2024–25 and what prospective buyers can expect in typical use across different markets.
Engine options and official fuel economy
U.S. market perspective
In the United States, the EcoSport has offered two main engine choices over its lifecycle. Official fuel-economy labels (EPA) show the smaller, turbocharged 1.0-liter EcoBoost as the more efficient option, with the larger 2.0-liter inline-4 delivering lower efficiency. Exact numbers vary by model year and transmission configuration.
- 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine (three-cylinder) with automatic transmission: roughly 27 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, 28 mpg combined (values vary by year and exact drivetrain).
- 2.0-liter inline-4 engine with automatic transmission: roughly 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined (values vary by year and exact drivetrain).
Note that these figures are representative for US-spec EcoSport models and can shift with changes in gearing, optional transmissions, and updates across model years. In other markets, engine offerings and test cycles differ and can yield different numbers.
Global variations
Beyond the United States, the EcoSport has been offered with a broader range of engines, including naturally aspirated and small turbo options, depending on regional regulations and market demand. In regions that use WLTP or other local testing standards, published fuel economy can look different from US EPA ratings. Always check the local specs for the exact configuration you’re considering.
Real-world performance and influencing factors
Official ratings provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy depends on how the vehicle is used and maintained. The following factors commonly shape EcoSport fuel economy in everyday driving:
- Driving style and average speeds, including aggressive acceleration or high-speed highway driving.
- Terrain and payload, especially frequent hills or carrying heavy loads.
- Tire choice and inflation pressures, which affect rolling resistance.
- Aerodynamics and cooling demands, including roof racks or cargo configurations.
- Climate control usage and electrical load (air conditioning and charging devices).
- Maintenance and engine health (air filters, spark plugs, and routine service).
With careful driving and proper maintenance, many EcoSport owners report fuel economy within a few miles per gallon of official estimates, though actual results will vary with the conditions described above and regional fuel costs.
Market lifecycle and availability
In the United States, Ford exited the EcoSport lineup after the 2019 model year, reflecting sales performance rather than a change in engineering philosophy. Globally, the EcoSport has persisted in many regions with periodic updates and region-specific engine offerings that can influence efficiency figures. Prospective buyers should verify current availability and exact engine-transmission pairing for their region and model year.
Regional notes
European and other international markets often use different test cycles, which can produce different efficiency numbers than US EPA ratings. When evaluating an EcoSport, review the local EPA-equivalent, WLTP, or country-specific figures for the exact configuration you’re considering.
Summary
The Ford EcoSport can be a sensible, fuel-efficient choice within the subcompact SUV class, particularly with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost option, which tends to deliver higher combined fuel economy than the larger 2.0-liter engine. However, actual efficiency depends on market, model year, transmission, and driving conditions. In the U.S., the EcoSport is no longer sold, but it remains available in many other regions with varying engine choices and test standards. For buyers prioritizing fuel economy, the EcoBoost variant is typically the better pick, complemented by mindful driving and regular maintenance.
Why did Ford discontinue EcoSport?
The Ford EcoSport was discontinued due to a combination of low sales, increased competition, and Ford's strategic shift in focus. Specifically, the company decided to cease production in markets like the US and India, partly because the small SUV faced strong competition from newer models, and Ford ended its manufacturing operations in India. Ford is also shifting resources toward more profitable models, including its truck lineup and electric vehicles.
- Declining sales: The EcoSport did not gain significant traction in some key markets, such as the US, where sales declined after an initial peak in 2018.
- Tough competition: The subcompact SUV segment became increasingly crowded with models like the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, and Kia Seltos, which offered more compelling features or perceived value.
- Strategic realignment: Ford ended its manufacturing in India, where the EcoSport was built for North American markets, to focus on a more sustainable and profitable business model.
- Shift in focus: The company is prioritizing other, more popular models, such as its trucks, and is investing heavily in electric vehicles.
Is the Ford EcoSport good on gas?
2022 Ford EcoSport Gas Mileage by trim level
As a five-passenger compact SUV, the 2022 Ford EcoSport has a sporty and fuel-efficient performance. The all-new Ford EcoSport delivers a fuel economy rating of an EPA-estimated 23 city and 29 highway mpg with every one of the trim levels, including S, SE, SES and Titanium.
What are the disadvantages of the Ford EcoSport?
The longer you drive with a failed turbo, the more damage it can cause to your engine [4]. Beyond turbocharger problems listed in the Warrantywise Reliability Index, EcoSport owners have reported a range of other quality concerns, including noisy brake pads, jerky transmissions, and doors that won't lock properly [5].
How many miles can a Ford EcoSport go on a full tank?
Luckily, the 2022 EcoSport's gas tank holds up to 13.8-gallons of gas. When you buy the new EcoSport, you can expect to get around 317.4 city miles on one tank of gas while highway drivers get up to 400.2 miles.
