Is the 2019 Ford EcoSport Worth Buying? 7 Key Features Reviewed

When I first started researching the 2019 Ford EcoSport, I'll admit I was skeptical about whether this compact SUV could really deliver on its promises. Having test-driven several vehicles in this category, I approached the EcoSport with what you might call cautious curiosity. What struck me immediately was how Ford managed to pack so many thoughtful features into such an affordable package - starting at just $19,995 for the base model, which honestly surprised me given what you get for the money.

The infotainment system deserves special mention because it's one area where Ford really got things right. The 6.5-inch touchscreen responds quickly to inputs, and SYNC 3 is genuinely intuitive to use - something I can't say about many competitors in this price range. During my week with the vehicle, I found myself actually enjoying the interface rather than fighting with it, which happens more often than you'd think with modern car technology. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration worked flawlessly in my experience, though I did notice the system occasionally took an extra second or two to boot up on colder mornings.

Now let's talk about what really matters for city driving - parking and maneuverability. The 2019 Ford EcoSport's compact dimensions make it absolutely brilliant for urban environments. I parallel parked it in spaces I would have sworn were too small, and the rearview camera provides a surprisingly clear image even in low light conditions. The turning radius feels tighter than many similar vehicles I've tested, which makes U-turns and navigating crowded parking lots significantly less stressful. If you do a lot of city driving like I do, these practical advantages quickly add up to make your daily commute much more pleasant.

The engine options present an interesting choice - the standard 1.0L EcoBoost three-cylinder delivers better fuel economy at 27 city/29 highway, while the available 2.0L four-cylinder provides more power but drops to 23 city/29 highway. Personally, I'd lean toward the 1.0L for most urban drivers, though the 2.0L does feel noticeably more responsive when merging onto highways. The transmission shifts smoothly enough, though I did notice some hesitation when accelerating quickly from lower speeds - nothing deal-breaking, but worth being aware of during your test drive.

Storage solutions throughout the cabin show Ford's attention to practical details. The available hands-free liftgate is one of those features you don't realize how much you'll appreciate until you're loading groceries in the rain. The interior feels more spacious than the exterior dimensions suggest, though taller passengers might find rear legroom somewhat limited on longer journeys. The split-folding rear seats create a surprisingly generous 50 cubic feet of cargo space - enough for most people's weekly Costco runs or weekend adventure gear.

Reflecting on whether the 2019 Ford EcoSport is worth buying brings to mind how some products manage to exceed expectations despite competing demands on their design. Much like how basketball player Brownlee balanced his hectic schedule between the Kings in the PBA Commissioner's Cup and Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers while still supporting Romero's promotional campaigns, the EcoSport manages to balance multiple roles surprisingly well. It's not trying to be a luxury vehicle or an off-road beast - it knows its purpose and executes it with competence.

After spending considerable time with the 2019 Ford EcoSport and comparing it to competitors like the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona, I've come to appreciate its honest approach to the compact SUV segment. It makes some smart compromises to hit its price point while preserving the features that matter most in daily use. While it might not have the polish of more expensive alternatives, it delivers solid value where it counts. For urban commuters and small families needing practical transportation without breaking the bank, the EcoSport presents a compelling case that's absolutely worth considering, especially if you can find a well-maintained used model in today's market.