See How the EcoSport Dominates its Compact SUV Competition

if you're looking for the versatility and capacity that an SUV has to offer, but need something that's more adept at handling Philadelphia traffic, then a compact SUV is the ideal solution. Of course, it seems like every automaker out there is offering their take on a right-sized SUV, so how are you supposed to figure out which is the right one for you? Simple. Let us do the research for you. That's why we took a look at how the Ford EcoSport matches up to two rivals, the Buick Encore and the Honda HR-V, in head-to-head comparisons.

Ford EcoSport vs. Buick Encore

Performance

Both the Ford EcoSport and the Buick Encore offer a choice of two engines to power your Havertown commute. While the Encore's standard 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine produced more power than the standard 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine found in the EcoSport, a comparison of the top engine options flips the script. The EcoSport has an available 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 166 horsepower, besting the Encore's available 1.4-liter inline-four and its 153 horsepower.

If you're looking to tow something with your SUV, you need to know that the Ford EcoSport had a max tow capacity of 1,400 pounds. The Buck Encore, however, isn't rated for any towing capacity.

Interior

Both SUVs seat five across two rows, but the Ford EcoSport offers more passenger space for those five people than the Encore manages. Then there's the not-so-little matter of cargo capacity, which is always an essential factor with SUVs. With the back seats upright, the EcoSport gives you two more cubic feet of cargo space than the Encore provides; lower the seats, and the edge in available space continues to favor the EcoSport.

When comparing base models of each SUV, it's interesting to note the features that come standard on the Ford EcoSport that aren't included with the Buick Encore. These include wireless cell phone hookup, variable speed intermittent wipers, auto-off headlights, and an aux audio input.

Ford EcoSport vs. Honda HR-V

Performance

The HR-V is equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that's slightly more powerful than the 1.3-liter turbo three-cylinder engine offered as standard issue in the EcoSport, but the EcoSport offers an available 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 166 horsepower and 149 pound-feet of torque. That far surpasses the performance metrics offered by the HR-V's sole engine.

The Ford EcoSport employs start/stop technology to turn the engine off automatically when the vehicle is stopped, reducing pollution and saving fuel at the same time. The HR-V doesn't feature an automatic start/stop technology, so you're burning fuel while sitting in Haverford traffic.

Features

The Ford EcoSport is shorter than the HR-V, and boasts a tighter turning radius as a result. That makes it the far easier SUV to maneuver through narrow city streets and into and out of tight parking spots. Interestingly, even though it's the shorter of the two the EcoSport offers greater headroom and legroom for front seat occupants -- making it the far more comfortable option for a road trip.

The EcoSport includes many features that either cost extra to add to the HR-V or aren't offered at all for the Honda. These include automatic on-off headlights, speed-sensitive windshield wipers, remote start, and a rear-seat folding armrest.

Test Drive the Ford EcoSport Today

Considering that the Ford EcoSport starts with a lower Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price than either of its rivals, it's clear to us that it offers our customers the best value. A quick trip from Springfield PA and you'll be walking around our Broomall showroom, examining the Ford EcoSport from every angle and admiring its style and finishes. Our team is here to answer any questions you might have, hand you the keys so you can take one out for a spin, and arrange for the advantageous loan or Ford lease that you want. We look forward to seeing you soon!