2021 Ford EcoSport vs. Hyundai Kona Comparison
2021 Ford EcoSport vs. Hyundai Kona Comparison
Posted on July 13, 2021
The subcompact SUV market is one of the fastest-growing areas of Canadian car sales, as more and more drivers discover the advantages of smaller vehicles perfectly suited to daily city duties. The Ford EcoSport is a classic example of the modern format, combining sturdy power under the hood with genuine agility through urban streets. Does the 2021 model live up to the standards set by previous years? To find out, we've set up a comparison review against one of its direct competitors, the Hyundai Kona. Here's how it went.
First Impressions
Both cars stick fairly closely to the SUV design formula, although scaled down to a subcompact size. But while the two cars are roughly the same size, the Ford EcoSport looks chunkier and higher than the Kona, which is closer to a hatchback in profile. What's more, the Ford is actually slightly slimmer, making it easier to fit into small parking spots and cruise around tight corners with real deftness.
Under the Hood
As standard, the EcoSport is fitted with an economical 1.0L turbo I3 engine, making a city-friendly 123 horsepower and 125lb-ft of torque. At first glance, the Kona has the edge here with its standard 2.0L four-cylinder engine making 147 hp and 132lb-ft. But if raw power is a deciding factor for your subcompact SUV purchase, the EcoSport offers an extra option with the equivalent 2.0L I4 engine making a more substantial 166 horsepower and 149lb-ft, giving a perky edge to the performance.
Seating and Cargo Capacity
Both cars seat up to five, although as with any subcompact SUV the rear seats can be a little cramped for longer journeys. But nonetheless, the Ford's slightly higher, chunkier cabin shape gives it a more spacious feel than the Kona.
However, in terms of cargo capacity, the 2021 Ford EcoSport is a clear winner. With the rear seats folded down, the EcoSport offers up to 1,416L of cargo space, comfortably beating the Kona's figure of 1,297L. And it's a similar story when all five passengers are seated, with the Ford providing 592L of luggage space in the rear, inching ahead of the Kona's figure of 543L.
Infotainment and Technology
Both cars are fairly evenly matched in terms of infotainment, offering all the features you'd expect from a modern family SUV. Both provide an infotainment touchscreen of up to 8", with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto handling smartphone integration, and both offer advanced in-built navigation as an option.
It's a similar story for the safety tech features, with both cars offering essential modern features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts to reduce accident risks to a minimum.
2021 Ford EcoSport vs Hyundai Kona Review: The Outcome
Both cars offer a great economical city driving experience. However, the Ford EcoSport boasts a more striking and confident SUV outline, better engine options, and extra cargo capacity to complete the picture. Book a test drive from our Regina dealership and see for yourself why the 2021 Ford EcoSport remains a consistent winner in the subcompact SUV stakes.