Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2018 Ford EcoSport S
With an overall Carivo score of 6.4/10, the 2018 Ford EcoSport S earns a Fair rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.2/10, while Performance at 5.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. Buyers should review the score breakdown carefully and consider higher-rated alternatives before committing.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.4/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 7.2/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 5.6/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.3/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $21,321–$28,460, 21 MPG, seating 5, the Ford EcoSport S sits in the budget-friendly tier of the suv market. The value score of 6.7/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Based on our scoring, the 2018 Ford EcoSport S underperforms its segment peers across multiple dimensions. Unless there's a specific reason it fits your situation — price, a particular trim's features, or availability — there are better-scored alternatives at similar price points worth considering first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2018 Ford EcoSport S ranks #2417 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 2% of the segment. Its 6.4/10 overall score is 1 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $21,321 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 41%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which EcoSport S Year Should You Buy?
Across the EcoSport S model years we've scored, the 2018 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Accessible entry price makes it one of the more affordable options in the category
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Performance is a genuine liability — well below class rivals and worth factoring into any decision
Infotainment and tech features feel dated compared to newer rivals in this segment
Fuel economy at 21 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2018 Ford EcoSport S
Is the 2018 Ford EcoSport S reliable?
We rate the 2018 Ford EcoSport S's reliability 6.4/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2018 Ford EcoSport S worth buying?
It scores 6.4/10 overall, ranking #2417 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 2% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2018 Ford EcoSport S cost?
The 2018 Ford EcoSport S starts at $21,321 and ranges up to $28,460 across trims (MSRP when new). At 21 MPG, expect roughly $2,500/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which EcoSport S years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 5 EcoSport S model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (6.7/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Ford EcoSport S
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