The Tiny EcoSport Promises to Hack your Life

TopSpeed

By Mark McNabb

Published Feb 2, 2018

It’s like totally #millennial and stuff

Ford is unabashedly targeting millennials who love a good #lifehack with its new EcoSport compact crossover. Not only does it have an affordable price tag, but Ford keeps lauding the five-seater’s modern connectivity features like 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, and its new Ford+Alexa system. Well, Ford is now adding to the app-friendly EcoSport thanks to the integration of Waze, the community-based traffic and navigation app.

Continue reading for more information.

Controlling Waze is now easier thanks to a more seamless integration into the SYNC 3 infotainment system. With the app running on a connected smartphone, Waze can be activated by voice commands and information will display on the EcoSport’s touchscreen system. It’s all designed to help drivers avoid heavy traffic, accidents, police speed traps, and roadblocks. Ford says the Waze integration will become available later this year.

Ford says it knows EcoSport customers are looking to make the most of their busy lives thanks to a YouGov survey. More than 3,000 American adults were polled about areas of their lives they wish could be “life hacked.” Topping the list were three areas Ford things it can help with. First is bettering their commuting experience, second is increasing opportunities for adventures, and third is improving their social lives.

So, by integrating more tech into the EcoSport, Ford is hoping to help customers (aka hipsters, millennials, dreamers, vegans, and all the other vogue labels) hack their daily life to be more productive.

Liz Halash, Ford Connected Vehicle & Services supervisor, said in a statement, “With the flexibility of SYNC 3, AppLink, and smartphone access with FordPass and FordPass Connect, EcoSport customers can save time and energy in their day.” Likewise, Ford’s marketing manager for the EcoSport, Cristina Aquino, says, “The all-new Ford EcoSport is a unique vehicle that is perfect for those who are looking to get the most out of their day.”

Of course, the EcoSport isn’t really “all new.” The compact crossover has been around since 2012 and sold globally in mainly second- and third-world markets. Ford didn’t change much when it imported the EcoSport to the U.S. – not even the name changes. Speaking of which, Ford says the name is pronounced “Echo-Sport,” you know, like completely different from its massive line of EcoBoost engines. EcoBoost like Economical… The EchoSport is even equipped with an EcoBoost – a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder with 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. An optional EcoBoost engine is a 2.0-liter turbo-four with 166 horsepower and 149 pound-feet of torque. Both engines run on regular 87-octane gasoline and come with a six-speed automatic transmission. AWD is available as well.

The 2018 Ford EcoSport has four trim levels: S, SE, Titanium, and SES. Prices start at $19,995 for the S and top out around $26,740 on the SES.