2020 Ford EcoSport vs Fiat 500L
When you’re shopping for a commute-friendly crossover, the 2020 Ford EcoSport and Fiat 500L will entice you with their city-friendly dimensions and savvy tech features. Both subcompact crossovers balance modern comfort with commute-friendly efficiency. So which is right for you? Our comparison guide is here to help you make an informed choice.
Friendliest Starting Price: 2020 Ford EcoSport
To get the best deal on a brand new crossover, you need the EcoSport. Starting at just $19,995, this Ford offers a modern daily drive that just about anyone can afford. That price includes an impressive array of tech features and a thrifty powertrain. With its starting MSRP of $22,500, the Fiat 500L will set you back a bit more.
Modern Comfort: It’s a Draw!
Both the 2020 Ford EcoSport and the Fiat 500L have your comfort in mind. The EcoSport’s strengths include cushy seats and generous room for up to five passengers. And the Fiat 500L is also spacious and practical. Although this little Italian number is styled like a crossover, it’s technically a roomy wagon.
Both models offer a number of appealing comfort features, such as leather upholstery and heated front seats. Ambient interior lighting is also optional, giving each cabin a friendly glow after dark.
Standard Tech Lineup: 2020 Ford EcoSport
Here, the EcoSport returns to the lead. Ford’s subcompact crossover is loaded with tech goodies, including a standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and two USB ports to keep devices at the ready. All but the base S model keep you connected with Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone capabilities. Sync 3 gets especially high marks for its response times and easy-to-understand menus.
The Fiat 500L is a close second, however. It, too, offers complete smartphone integration and a touchscreen interface for the Uconnect infotainment system. However, it’s missing some features that you’ll find on the EcoSport, such as dual USB ports and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Efficiency: 2020 Ford EcoSport
Not only does the EcoSport feature the friendliest price tag, but it also earns the highest EPA ratings. With front-wheel drive, these sporty Ford crossovers are rated for 28 mpg combined (27 city/29 highway). All-wheel-drive models are slightly less thrifty, earning 25 mpg combined (23/29 mpg).
Still, the 2020 Fiat 500L isn’t too far behind. This little crossover earns 25 mpg combined (22/30 mpg). Shoppers on a budget should note that the Fiat 500L requires premium gasoline, while the EcoSport runs just fine on regular gasoline.
At the end of the day, the 2020 Ford EcoSport crosses the finish line first. If you’re after a small crossover that both saves you money and treats you to a comfy, high-tech cabin, visit us at LaFayette Ford in Fayetteville, North Carolina.