Ford has launched an online build & price tool for the new-to-the-market, 2018 Ford EcoSport crossover in the United States, revealing a starting price of just $19,995 – or $20,990, with destination. That’s inexpensive enough to undercut automatic transmission-versions of the Honda HR-V and Jeep Renegade, notes Car and Driver.
Four trim levels will be available: S ($20,990); SE ($23,900); SES ($27,735); and Titanium ($26,735). It may seem unusual that the range-topping Ford EcoSport Titanium wears a lower starting price than the lesser SES model – and indeed it is, until you consider that the SES comes standard with Intelligent 4WD and the bigger, more potent of two available engines, where those features are paid extras on the Titanium.
Those two available engines are a 1.0-liter EcoBoost I3 capable of eking out all of 123 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter Ti-VCT I4 rated at 167 hp and 149 lb-ft. The latter engine ships with Ford’s Intelligent 4WD regardless of trim, and both powerplants come standard with a 6-speed SelectShift automatic; none of that dual-clutch malarkey here.
Most intriguing of all, the 2018 Ford EcoSport is tow-rated at 3,500 pounds regardless of trim, and while serious towing and hauling should be left to a bigger, more qualified vehicle, it’s good to know that Ford has anticipated that usage scenario. Hauling is rated at 1,570 pounds, again regardless of trim.
The first-ever North American Ford EcoSport is slated to arrive in dealerships from early-2018, packing versatility and a decent roster of creature comforts in a bite-sized wrapper. You can configure your very own at shop.ford.com.
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IM INTERSETED IN THE ECOSPORT.. MY SALESPERSON IS MIKE. THANKS SH