Subcompact crossovers like the 2020 Ford EcoSport and Mazda CX-3 offer an enticing combo of efficiency, athleticism, and modern comforts. Choosing between these models isn’t easy, though, because they have so much in common. Fortunately, Jones Ford’s comparison guide is here to help you sort out the details.
Roomy, Attractive Interior: 2020 Ford EcoSport
For the comfiest trip around town, choose the EcoSport. It’s roomier than the CX-3, especially in terms of rear-seat legroom. You’ll also love the EcoSport’s front seats, which wrap you in their supportive contours and make long road trips all the more pleasurable. Options like heated seats and leather upholstery dress up your ride.
Inside the CX-3, there’s also a lot to love. Cabin design is sleek and modern, and the seat cushions strike a nice balance between softness and support. However, the tight rear-seat legroom may be an issue, especially for drivers who like to travel around with company.
Road-Trip-Ready Cargo Space: 2020 Ford EcoSport
Travel a lot? You can pack more stuff in the EcoSport. Behind the rear seats, this subcompact crossover offers 20.9 cubic feet for your stuff—an above-average figure in this segment. When you need to haul home improvement supplies or major shopping hauls, fold down the rear seats to establish 50 cubes of maximum cargo space.
Even for this segment, the CX-3 is a little bit short on cargo space, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats. With those seats folded, the cabin offers a total of 42.7 cubes of maximum cargo space, much less roomy than the EcoSport.
Connectivity To Go: 2020 Ford EcoSport
We’re especially impressed with the EcoSport’s tech lineup. Every trim model comes with a Wi-Fi hotspot, something that’s certain to come in handy on road trips. You’ll also love the Sync 3 infotainment system, which includes both an easy-to-use touch screen and complete smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Although the Mazda CX-3 doesn’t include a Wi-Fi hotspot, it does provide an impressive infotainment lineup. We like its infotainment setup, which features a responsive 7-inch touch screen. However, Mazda’s native infotainment technology can be tough to figure out, so you might find yourself sticking to the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features.
Engaging Performance: 2020 Mazda CX-3
Like any Mazda, the CX-3 is especially fun to drive. Thanks to its tight steering, this crossover has a knack for cruising curvy roads. This crossover is also the more powerful of the pair, with a four-cylinder engine that gets you up to speed with 148 horsepower.
While it’s not quite as sporty as the CX-3, the 2020 Ford EcoSport is a solid commuter, delivering a smooth ride and up to 28 mpg combined. And, if you want a little bit more athleticism, you can always choose the EcoSport SES, a trim model that gives you extra horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension.
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 is certainly sporty, but it’s the 2020 Ford EcoSport that provides the roomiest, most tech-savvy drive. Head over to Jones Ford, your friendly North Charleston Ford dealership to test-drive this modern little crossover!