Why did EcoSport get discontinued?

The EcoSport was retired from several markets as Ford restructured its global lineup to focus on more profitable, modern SUVs and electrified offerings. The timing and specifics varied by country, but the overarching reason was a combination of weak demand in key regions and a strategic shift away from low-volume models.

The EcoSport, once Ford’s entry into the subcompact SUV segment, faced shifting market tastes, increasing competition, and the cost pressures of maintaining an aging platform. As Ford redirected resources toward larger crossovers, new compact designs, and electrified vehicles, the EcoSport’s position became harder to justify in many regions. This article explains why the model was discontinued and how regional decisions differed over time.

Key factors behind the decision

Below is a concise look at the primary drivers behind Ford’s decision to discontinue the EcoSport. The list captures the core commercial and strategic considerations that typically influence such moves.

• Weak or declining sales in major markets where the EcoSport was previously offered, especially in regions dominated by bigger or more modern competitors.


• Ford’s strategic shift to prioritize higher-margin SUVs, crossovers, and electrified models, consolidating its product lineup around nameplates with stronger profitability and growth potential.


• Costs associated with updating an aging platform to meet evolving safety, emissions, and technology standards, which can erode the business case for a low-volume model.


• Intense competition from newer subcompact crossovers that offered more space, better features, and newer design at similar price points.


• Regional market realignments where the EcoSport remained viable only in select markets, prompting phased reductions and eventual discontinuation as volumes fell.

Taken together, these factors illustrate why Ford exited the EcoSport in multiple regions as part of a broader portfolio optimization. Availability has varied by country, with some markets ending sales earlier and others winding down production over a longer period.

Regional status and market-by-market notes

North America

In the United States and Canada, the EcoSport faced stiff competition from newer and larger compact crossovers and encountered limited consumer demand. Ford phased out the model in these markets as part of a broader reevaluation of its small-SUV lineup, preferring higher-margin offerings that better fit consumer preferences and dealer economics.

Europe

European buyers shifted toward newer compact crossovers, and Ford gradually discontinued the EcoSport in favor of models like the Puma and other contemporary designs. The move aligned with a broader strategy to streamline the European lineup around fresher, more capable platforms with updated technology and efficiency.

Asia, Africa, and Latin America

In several emerging markets, the EcoSport remained a budget-friendly option for a time, but Ford progressively reduced production and availability as demand evolved and local competition intensified. Availability and timing varied by country, reflecting local market dynamics and manufacturing decisions.

What comes next for Ford and compact crossovers

Ford has signaled a continued emphasis on modern, efficient, and electrified crossovers that can compete globally. The company’s product strategy prioritizes models with stronger profitability, better technology, and greater adaptability to evolving regulatory requirements, which has influenced the fate of legacy nameplates like the EcoSport.

Summary: The EcoSport was discontinued primarily due to declining demand in key markets and Ford’s shift toward more profitable, modern crossovers and electrified vehicles. The timing and scope of discontinuation varied by region, with North America typically seeing earlier withdrawal and Europe following as newer models took its place. In remaining markets, production and availability have narrowed as Ford rebalanced its global lineup.

What is replacing the Ford EcoSport?

The Ford EcoSport's successor is the Ford Puma in markets like Europe and South Africa, but a new, separate model is being developed for other regions, including India. The Puma is a different model with a more coupe-like design, while the new model will likely be a distinct compact SUV with multi-energy powertrain options. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the successor to the Ford EcoSport: 58sWorldCarsdekhYouTube · Oct 16, 2025
Global successor

• Ford Puma: In many markets, the Puma is considered the replacement for the EcoSport. It is a compact crossover that is larger than the EcoSport and has a sportier design. 
• Production: The Ford Puma is being produced in Europe and has become a successful model for the company there. 
• Future model: While the Puma has replaced the EcoSport in some regions, Ford is reportedly developing a new, separate compact SUV that will be designed to be more affordable and to fill the gap left by the EcoSport, especially in emerging markets like India. 

New model for other markets

• Multi-energy architecture: The new EcoSport successor will be built on a multi-energy platform, meaning it will be capable of running on various powertrains including mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric versions. 
• Production: Production for this new compact SUV is expected to take place at Ford's Almussafes plant in Spain. 
• Design: It is expected to feature Ford's latest design language, with an aggressive look and a more coupe-like silhouette. 
• Target audience: This new model is intended to be an affordable alternative to other compact SUVs on the market, with an estimated starting price of around €20,000 to €24,000. 
• India market: Ford has recently resumed talks to restart production in India for this new model, with a focus on the Indian and other emerging markets. 

Key differences between Puma and the new model

• Design: The Puma has a sportier, more coupe-like design, while the new EcoSport successor is expected to have a more traditional SUV design but with a sportier look than the original EcoSport. 
• Price: The Puma is more expensive than the EcoSport, while the new EcoSport successor is intended to be more affordable. 
• Powertrain: The Puma is available with gasoline engines, while the new EcoSport successor is expected to offer a wider range of powertrains, including hybrid and electric options. 

What is the most common problem with the Ford EcoSport?

Engine problems are by far the most reported issue for the 2020 Ford EcoSport, with 171 of the 197 complaints on the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) website involving either the engine or the engine's cooling system.

Why did Ford quit making the 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. 

Which year EcoSport to avoid?

You should avoid Ford EcoSport models from 2014, 2018, and 2019 due to issues like unreliability and safety concerns, and stay away from models with the 1.0L 3-cylinder engine, especially those with high mileage, because of a serious recall for oil pump failure. Other problematic years include models manufactured between 2011 and 2016 which used a problematic PowerShift gearbox. 
This video explains why the Ford EcoSport is considered one of the worst SUVs in 2025: 57sCar SpotYouTube · Jun 23, 2025
Years and engine types to avoid

• 2014: Had the most complaints, including an unreliable audio system and shuddering issues. 
• 2018: Has safety-related issues, with reports of screeching/locking brakes and doors failing to lock in the rain. 
• 2019: Was flagged by some sources as a year to avoid due to general problems, including potential power loss. 
• 2011–2016: These models used the problematic PowerShift gearbox, which can lead to issues like coolant leaks. 
• 1.0L 3-cylinder engine (especially in higher mileage models): This engine is subject to a major recall for oil pump failure, which can be dangerous and lead to engine failure. 

What to consider if buying a used EcoSport

• Check engine type: If considering a 2018 or later model, avoid the 1.0L 3-cylinder engine due to the recall. The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine appears to be more reliable. 
• Inspect for leaks: Look for signs of coolant leaks, which could indicate a problem with the cylinder head. 
• Ask about transmission: Be aware of the potential issues with the PowerShift gearbox in models from 2011–2016. 
• Factor in recalls: Some EcoSport models have had safety-related recalls, so it is essential to check the specific vehicle's history. 
• Consider extended warranties: Given the potential for earlier-than-average repairs, an extended warranty may provide peace of mind.