For drivers who nab speeding tickets more often than free time, the Ford EcoSport could solve the lead-foot issue. EcoSport’s slow acceleration is noticeable, but that lack of quickness is good in the context of nudging drivers to an expressway’s slow lane. Essentially unchanged for the 2019 model year that means EcoSport hasn’t tackled a few other issues -- namely the chunky A- pillars that impede the driver’s sight lines. But this small crossover utility vehicle has many appeal factors, including a side hinged cargo door rather than the typical top-hinged cargo door. EcoSport is offered in 4 trims: S, SE, SES, and Titanium.

Powering the tested EcoSport SES 4WD was the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that produces 166 horsepower at 6500 and 149 lbs-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. (EcoSport also offers a 1.0-liter EcoBoost 3-cylinder that releases 123 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 125 lbs-ft of torque at 3500 rpm.) Both engines mate to a 6-speed automatic transmission. EcoSport is nicely balanced with a front track of 59.8 inches and a rear track of 59.7 inches. Cargo volume is 50 cubic feet behind front row seats and nearly 21 cubic feet behind the second row. The tested 99.2-inch wheelbase EcoSport SES carries a base MSRP of $27,275 and collects mpg of 23 city and 29 highway.