2019 Ford EcoSport vs Honda HR-V
In this tournament of the tiny, we compare two subcompact SUVs: the 2019 Ford EcoSport and its Honda rival, the HR-V. The Honda gets high marks for its cavernous cargo hold and its spirited ride, but there are plenty of reasons to give the Ford EcoSport another look. If you value utility, entertainment, affordability, and reliability, the EcoSport might be the best subcompact sport utility vehicle for you. Peruse these categories and prepare to be impressed.
Towing: 2019 Ford EcoSport
Some buyers might be surprised that subcompact SUVs can even tow a trailer. The truth is not all of them can. But Ford and Honda go above and beyond, in this case, especially Ford. Because, as it turns out, the 2019 Ford EcoSport can tow up to 1,400 pounds, when properly equipped. That’s good enough for a couple of dirt bikes or a small pop-up RV. And that’s good utility. The Honda HR-V also is slated to tow, but a few hundred pounds less, maxing out at 1,100 pounds.
Price: 2019 Ford EcoSport
Starting at $19,995, the 2019 Ford EcoSport is the most affordable of the two subcompacts. By comparison, the Honda HR-V starts at $20,520. And it’s not like the entry-level HR-V has a ton more standard features—fewer than the EcoSport has, in fact. The EcoSport’s standard features include cloth upholstery, four-way manually adjustable front seats, MyKey, rearview camera, and Ford’s SYNC connectivity system with 4.2-inch display screen, two USB ports, and six-speaker audio system. By comparison, the HR-V only has Bluetooth, USB port, four-speaker stereo, 5-inch display screen, and rearview camera.
Front Passenger Room: 2019 Ford EcoSport
Much has been said about the adult-friendly back seat in the Honda HR-V. And if you need to seat four adults in your subcompact SUV, that might be an attractive option. But from where we’re sitting the back seat is for kids and grocery bags. The front seat is where you want the head- and legroom. That’s why this very specific category exists. Because while the Honda HR-V might have two and half inches more legroom in the back, the EcoSport has almost two inches more legroom up front, where people like us actually want them.
Reliability: 2019 Ford EcoSport
The Ford EcoSport is a little more likely to avoid repair costs and mechanical problems, according to JD Power and Associates. They give the EcoSport an above-average score of 3.5 out of 5 in reliability. That means a better chance of spending less time in the repair shop and more time on the road. By comparison, the Honda HR-V earned a completely average score of 3 out of 5, meaning the HR-V breaks down or has other issues about as much as the average vehicle.
Infotainment System: 2019 Ford EcoSport
On a final note, Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system is one of the best in the business. Incredibly intuitive and wicked fast, you’ll be impressed with how the SYNC 3 performs compared to the competition. On the other hand, plenty of people have reported frustrations with Honda’s infotainment system. A physical volume knob has helped some, but the screen functions are imprecise and the entire system isn’t the most intuitive.
If you want front legroom, an intuitive system, a reliable ride, and an unbeaten price, the Ford EcoSport is the subcompact SUV for you.