From a quick glance at the exterior, the 2022 Ford EcoSport and the 2022 Chevy Trax may look pretty similar. Both are subcompact crossover SUV’s that have gorgeous style and curves. However, once you dig a little deeper you see that they are vastly different. The engine power, handling, and technology available for each of these vehicles vary not only between the two brands but also between their various trim options. For example, typical features such as cruise control are not available on the LS model of the Chevy Trax, only the LT. Similarly, the Ford EcoSport has four trims to choose from, including the S, SE, SES, and Titanium, but only offers the better sport-tuned suspension on the SES. So, before you purchase, take a closer look at these vehicles, and of course check with the friendly staff at Jones Ford with any questions!
Quick Specs Comparison
- MSRP Price: Ford EcoSport starting at $22,040 | Chevy Trax starting at $21,400
- Seating Capacity: Ford EcoSport offers seating for 5 | Chevy Trax offers seating for 5
- MPG: Ford EcoSport estimated 23/29 mpg City/Hwy | Chevy Trax estimated 24/32 mpg City/Hwy
- Engine: Ford EcoSport has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder | Chevy Trax has a 1.4-liter four-cylinder
- Horsepower: Ford EcoSport provides 166 hp | Chevy Trax provides 155 hp
- Cargo Space: Ford EcoSport holds 50 cubic feet max cargo volume | Chevy Trax holds 48.4 cubic feet max cargo volume
- Towing Capacity: Ford EcoSport maximum towing capacity is 2,000 lbs | Chevy Trax towing capacity is not yet confirmed, but the 2021 version was 1,263 lbs
Technical Differences
Strangely, while the Chevy Trax offers less cargo space and less legroom than the Ford EcoSport, on the exterior it is actually 6 inches longer. While this doesn’t seem like much, when you are trying to fit into a tight parking spot or even a small garage, the EcoSport is much easier to maneuver.
As shown in our quick specs above, you can see that the Ford EcoSport is the clear winner as far as having a more powerful engine and better horsepower. It also offers four wheel drive on all trims, as compared to the Trax only offering either front wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Speaking in terms of fuel economy, the EcoSport’s engine is designed to automatically turn off when the vehicle is stopped for a while (reducing pollution as well as saving you in fuel costs) and automatically restart when the driver begins to move again. The Trax does not offer this system, however overall it is listed as having slightly better mpg than the EcoSport.
Another obvious difference stylistically is the rear hatch door. While the Chevy Trax utilizes a standard back door that swings upward, the Ford EcoSport has gone in a different direction. Literally. They have equipped the EcoSport with a unique swing gate with a hideaway latch which adds a sporty and fresh take, as well as makes loading and unloading a bit easier.
Trims Available for the Ford EcoSport
2022 Ford EcoSport S
Starting at $22,040, this baseline trim of the EcoSport sadly doesn’t come with as much as the other trims offer. However, it does have a great engine equipped with start-stop technology and Intelligent 4WD. This allows it to offer those 166 hp while keeping smooth handling and impressive traction on various road conditions. The EcoSport S also includes a rear view camera, smart-charging USB ports in the front console, and the ability to turn your SUV into a Wi-Fi hotspot using FordPass Connect 4G LTE through AT&T.
2022 Ford EcoSport SE
The SE starts at an MSRP of $25,510. A few additional safety features are available at this level, such as the Ford’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alerts. The SE, SES, and Titanium trims also include a SYNC 3 8-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to easily connect your smartphone to this system without hassle.
2022 Ford EcoSport SES
The Ford EcoSport SES provides you with a lot of great features while keeping at a reasonable starting MSRP of only $28,205. This trim includes a special sport-tuned suspension for a smoother ride and better handling on curves. The ActiveX seat material which is on the SES and Titanium also adds a high-end look and feel to the interior, while being very easy to clean. Plus, several of the optional add-ons from the other trims are standard with the SES.
2022 Ford EcoSport Titanium
For the EcoSport’s top tier trim we have the Titanium coming in with a starting MSRP of $28,395. If you like rocking in your car, this model provides you with a B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 10 speakers specifically designed for the EcoSport!
Trims Available for the Chevy Trax
2022 Chevy Trax LS
Both the Trax LS and the Trax LT are available as either FWD or AWD. The LS has a starting MSRP of either $21,400 (FWD) or $23,215 (AWD). Unlike the baseline S model of the EcoSport, all models of the Chevy Trax offer a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect easily with this system. However, navigation is not featured on any of the Chevy Trax trims. Mechanically speaking, you will find several features such as cruise control, power adjustable drivers’ seat, and the ability to fold the seats flat are extra fees.
2022 Chevy Trax LT
The interesting thing about the LT is that there are a lot of things that you can add for additional costs to make the Trax more stylistically what you like. The LT is available in three special editions on top of it being the LT trim. These include the Redline Edition ($995), Midnight Edition ($470), and the Sport Edition ($470). Each comes with special stylistic features such as metallic paint and gloss wheels. These different editions add a lot to the looks, but other than changing up the tires they really don’t change much in terms of the mechanical details of the vehicle.
The LT also offers various add-on packages. The LT Convenience Package which adds keyless open, keyless start, and a 6-way power driver seat for $450. There is also a Driver Confidence Package for $495 which provides rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert, and side blind zone alert. Other packages include the Road Trip Package, Lifestyle Package, Protection Package, Cargo Package, and more.
However, even without adding any of these special editions or packages, the LT is still a step up from the LS with many more standard features. Remote start, cruise control, a 120-volt power outlet, and LED daytime running lamps, for example, are standard on the LT trim.
So…Ford EcoSport or the Chevy Trax?
The Ford EcoSport provides you with a better engine, horsepower, traction control, comfort, and towing. Plus, it comes in much more vibrant and sporty colors (and you can get that sport decal if you really want a sporty look). Some features which are standard in most vehicles nowadays are absent from the Chevy Trax LS, such as cruise control. The Chevy Trax does offer more infotainment features on both of their trim options than the EcoSport does in their base model, although that is remedied on the higher trims of the EcoSport. Even if you are focused on price, make sure you take into consideration the extras that need to be added onto the Chevy Trax. Overall, my vote would be for the Ford EcoSport.