2021 Ford EcoSport vs Buick Encore
The 2021 Ford EcoSport and Buick Encore are two subcompact crossovers with maybe a little too much in common. Which, of course, is exactly why it’s so hard to choose between them. Luckily, our comparison guide has the details you need to make the right decision.
Friendliest Price: 2021 Ford EcoSport
You can save a few thousand dollars simply by choosing the EcoSport. Ford’s subcompact crossover starts at $19,995. The Buick Encore will automatically cost you more, with a starting MSRP of $23,200.
Sporty Performance: 2021 Ford EcoSport
Looking for a small crossover that puts a little pep in your step? That’s the EcoSport! All-wheel drive is optional for every trim model, so you can get a better grip on icy pavement or sandy trails. Its performance-based SES trim model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that helps you pick up speed with 166 horsepower and 149 pound-feet of torque. If you’d rather stick with the base engine, you’ll be happy to learn that it earns up to 28 mpg combined.
The Buick Encore doesn’t offer an engine upgrade, and every trim model uses a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that achieves up to 27 mpg combined. All-wheel drive isn’t quite as widely available for the Encore, but it is optional for all but the base 1SV model.
Road-Trip Ready: 2021 Ford EcoSport
If we were to pick one of these extra-small crossovers to take on our next adventure, it would definitely be the EcoSport. For starters, Ford’s crossover has the most comfortable seating, with plush padding and more than enough space in both rows. And, with 20.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (or 50 cubes with the rear seats folded down), it’s got more space for your stuff.
The Buick Encore follows just behind, because it also delivers road-trip-worthy seating, with nicely shaped contours and generous padding. The Encore doesn’t feel quite as roomy, however, especially from the backseats. And Encore passengers have less cargo space available to them, with 18.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats (or 48.4 total cubes with the rear seats folded).
Standard Technology: 2021 Buick Encore
Although both crossovers offer similar infotainment features, the Encore actually comes standard with more equipment. For example, every Encore includes an infotainment system with an 8-inch touch screen and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The EcoSport doesn’t come standard with Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system (which also includes an 8-inch touch screen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity). However, this system is standard on all but the base S model, which means it’s widely available.
Endnotes
The 2021 Buick Encore has its charms, but it’s the 2021 Ford EcoSport that makes the best daily driver. Choose Ford’s extra-small crossover for more cargo space, modern features, and sporty capabilities.