More and more drivers are choosing to go subcompact, and it’s no surprise! Vehicles in this class are efficient, versatile, small, and affordable. But as this emerging vehicle class continues to grow, which vehicle is the ideal choice for you? Two subcompact SUVs that are commonly compared are the 2019 Ford EcoSport vs 2019 Honda HR-V. Both have proven to be popular options for their class and offer unique features. However, there’s a few factors that give the 2019 Ford EcoSport the edge over the new HR-V.
Less Expensive, More Versatile
The 2019 Ford EcoSport is one of the most affordable subcompact SUVs in its class with a starting MSRP of just $19,995. Meanwhile, the 2019 Honda HR-V has a higher starting MSRP of $20,520. Not only will the EcoSport save you money, but it even offers more versatility than many of its competitors, including the new HR-V. This is due in part to the EcoSport’s high towing capacity for the subcompact class, which is an impressive 2,000 LBS. However, the 2019 Ford EcoSport is also the more well-rounded vehicle compared to the HR-V given its onboard technology, safety features, and available luxury and convenience features.
Advanced Entertainment Suite
When it comes to the 2019 Ford EcoSport vs 2019 Honda HR-V, the EcoSport takes the win in terms of standard and available entertainment technology. Like other vehicles in the subcompact class, the Honda does not prioritize its available tech. However, the new EcoSport made great strides to improve its selection of entertainment technology and now has one of the most premium entertainment suites in its class. For standard technology, drivers will find multiple USB ports, the top-rated SYNC infotainment system, and a 6-speaker sound system. However, it’s the EcoSport’s available entertainment features that are truly exceptional in the subcompact SUV class. Drivers can upgrade to features including an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, HD radio, a built-in WiFi hotspot, and the choice of a 7 or 9-speaker Bose sound system. And with the EcoSport’s low starting MSRP, upgrading to these features remains incredibly affordable.
On the 2019 Honda CR-V, you’ll find a short list of both standard and available entertainment features. On the base model drivers will find just one USB port, Bluetooth, and a small display screen, and that’s about it. Available entertainment features include a 7-inch touchscreen display, satellite radio, and navigation. Drivers can also opt for an additional USB port, how this extra cost only allows you to match what is offered as standard on the EcoSport’s base trim level. If you’re looking for a small SUV packed with entertainment options, you’ll want to choose the 2019 Ford EcoSport over the 2019 Honda HR-V.
New Model Year, New Changes
The Ford EcoSport made a few important changes to its new 2019 model, and it shows. For 2019, the EcoSport received a refreshing exterior upgrade, which offers a sleeker and more modern design. The interior of the EcoSport also features a few new modern touches, making for a more premium interior than previous models. The entertainment suite on the EcoSport is now one of the most advanced on the market, and yet Ford was able to keep the price on the new model identical to last year.
Meanwhile, the Honda HR-V is newly designed for the 2019 model and features several upgrades. However, many of these upgrades only allow it to offer many of the features that the EcoSport has offered for years. For example, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available for the first time on the HR-V, at an additional cost, but this has been the case on the EcoSport in previous model years. Other changes include the addition of a more sporty trim level, which the EcoSport already offers through its SES trim level. However, unlike the 2019 Ford EcoSport, the 2019 Honda HR-V received a substantial increase in price compared to its previous model. Drivers looking for modern features at an affordable price will want to choose the new EcoSport over the new HR-V.
Lower Trim Levels, More Luxury
The 2019 Ford EcoSport is offered in four available trim levels, the S, SE, SES, and Titanium. Not only is the base model extremely affordable, but upgrading to a higher trim level is also affordable. Drivers moving up just one trim level can enjoy luxury features like heated front seats, a leather wrapped steering wheel, a power adjustable driver’s seat, and even rear parking sensors. However, the third trim level offers even more luxury with leather touches, an upgraded engine, all-wheel drive, and an 8-inch touchscreen display.
However, in order to experience similar luxury features, drivers will have to upgrade to at least the third or fourth trim level of the 2019 Honda HR-V, and each upgrade means a substantial increase in cost. In order to experience all-wheel drive and a more powerful engine and an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, drivers will have to upgrade to the fifth trim level, the Touring. This adds over $8,000 to the starting MSRP, and you’ll still only have a 7-inch touchscreen display and a fairly bare entertainment suite. In order to enjoy leather-trimmed seating, you’ll have to upgrade to the fourth trim level which costs almost $5,000. If you’re looking to upgrade to a higher trim level for a reasonable price, the EcoSport is definitely the way to go. With only the EcoSport’s second or third trim level, you’ll have all the luxury you need, all-wheel drive, and a more powerful and capable engine.
The 2019 Ford EcoSport vs 2019 Honda HR-V in Stats
When choosing between two vehicles, it’s important to take a close look at a few important stats. This is an easy way to determine which vehicle offers higher performance and which vehicle is the overall better value. When it comes to the 2019 Ford EcoSport vs 2019 Honda HR-V, the EcoSport certainly takes the win in performance and affordability.
2019 Ford EcoSport
- MSRP: $19,995
- Towing Capacity: up to 2,000 LBS
- Horsepower: 123-166 hp
- Torque: up to 125-149 lb-ft
- Available Touchscreen Display: 6.5-inch, 8-inch
- Seating: 5
2019 Honda HR-V
- MSRP: $20,520
- Towing Capacity: N/A
- Horsepower: 141 hp
- Torque: 127 lb-ft
- Available Touchscreen Display: 7-inch
- Seating: 5
Considering the 2019 Ford EcoSport vs 2019 Honda HR-V? Visit Your Local Dealer
Whether you’re interested in the 2019 Ford EcoSport or the 2019 Honda HR-V, it’s important to visit your local Ford and Honda dealers to see these vehicles in person. Be sure to sit in the drivers seat, walk the perimeter of the vehicle, ask any questions that you may have, and check out all of the available models and packages. It may also be a good idea to inquire about any available accessories that could enhance the look or function of your vehicle. You’ll also want to ask about the current specials and incentives that can help you further reduce the cost of your vehicle. Additionally, you may also want to consider purchasing from a dealership with an on-site service center and flexible finance center, so that you can complete all of your automotive needs in one place. So, when you’re ready to check out the new EcoSport, head to your local Ford dealer!
