The 2021 Ford EcoSport might seem like a good option. It’s an attractive enough vehicle, and it certainly boasts an affordable price tag. But does that actually make the 2021 Ford EcoSport a good option? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Don’t just take our word for it, though. 

Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Ford EcoSport some pretty dismal ratings

For Consumer Reports, the 2021 Ford EcoSport isn’t very deserving of high ratings. In fact, this year’s model was only able to manage a two out of five predicted reliability rating. It also earned a one out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating, which is definitely not a score worth writing home about. 

But what about the 2021 Ford EcoSport has Consumer Reports giving it such abysmal ratings? Well, according to Consumer Reports, it’s “neither eco nor sport.” Its ride is fairly jittery, and road noise is definitely noticeable within the cabin. Cargo space is also limited and, according to Consumer Reports, the back doors of it are pretty awkward to open too.

Car and Driver didn’t have many good things to say about the 2021 Ford EcoSport either

Unfortunately for the 2021 Ford EcoSport, Car and Driver didn’t have many good things to say about it either. In fact, according to Car and Driver, this year’s EcoSport is among the most poorly rated in its segment. But what is it about this year’s model that left Car and Driver less than impressed with it?

First off, its 123-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine is pretty underpowered. It’s also not very fuel-efficient, which may come as a surprise considering its name. Car and Driver also said that the cabin quality is pretty underwhelming and leaves much to be desired. Even if you opt for a higher trim level, Car and Driver says that you can expect the 2021 EcoSport’s leather-wrapped steering wheel to feel rubbery and most of the plastic surfaces to feel hollow.

Kelley Blue Book was less than impressed with it too

Kelley Blue Book had much of the same to say about the 2021 Ford EcoSport. According to Kelley Blue Book, its base engine feels sluggish. Having passengers onboard definitely doesn’t help matters either. Kelley Blue Book also reported that “the engine sometimes suffers from turbo lag, meaning its throttle response is delayed and power doesn’t come on with any noticeable force until above 2,000 rpm.”

Kelley Blue Book wasn’t impressed with the Ford EcoSport’s safety features either. While many competitors offer sought after safety features like automatic emergency braking, the 2021 EcoSport does not. However, this year’s model is available with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and rear parking sensors.

Consider one of these alternatives to the 2021 Ford EcoSport instead

Fortunately, if you are in the market for a subcompact SUV, the 2021 Ford EcoSport isn’t the only option available. In fact, the subcompact SUV segment is pretty crowded. Consider, for instance, the 2021 Mazda CX-30, which earned some pretty high marks from both Car and Driver and Consumer Reports. You might also consider the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, which comes standard with all-wheel drive and, according to Car and Driver, makes for a pretty well-rounded pick. And if neither of those options suits your fancy? Consider the Kia Seltos, which Kelley Blue Book recently included in its ‘Best Buy’ awards.