MODEL
Ford Ecosport Safety
NHTSA safety across every Ford Ecosport model year we cover.
Across the 4 model years of the Ford Ecosport we cover (2019 to 2022), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 80 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2021 at 74. 10 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Ford EcoSport is a subcompact SUV that slotted into Ford's lineup as an entry-level urban crossover, targeting budget-conscious buyers and city drivers who want an elevated ride height in a compact footprint. Sold in the United States from the 2019 through 2022 model years before Ford discontinued it, the EcoSport competed in one of the most crowded segments in the market, where safety credentials matter as much as practicality.
The Ford EcoSport's 2019-2022 run is characterized by a high volume of recalls and owner complaints, overshadowing its otherwise moderate crash-test performance. Ten recalls across just four model years represent a significant concern. Total owner complaints reached 1,098, including allegations of 20 crashes, 10 fires, 14 injuries, and 3 deaths. These remain unverified claims but suggest a pattern warranting scrutiny. In crash testing, the EcoSport achieved a 4-out-of-5-star frontal rating, a 5-out-of-5-star side rating, and a 4-out-of-5-star rollover rating in its strongest year. The side impact score stands out, but both frontal and rollover results indicate areas for improvement within the subcompact SUV class. The vehicle's Safety Index peaked at 80 out of 100 for the 2022 model, placing it in our "Strong" band, reflecting a late-cycle improvement. However, its overall safety record from 2019 to 2022 is largely average.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Ford EcoSport as a functional but underwhelming entry in the subcompact SUV segment. They tend to acknowledge its compact maneuverability and ease of urban use while consistently pointing to a cramped interior, a modest driving experience, and feature content that trails stronger rivals. Most professional assessments place it toward the lower half of its competitive set overall.
- The EcoSport recorded 10 recalls across just four covered model years, an above-average recall frequency for this segment. Any used example should be checked against NHTSA's recall database to confirm all campaigns have been completed before purchase.
- The 2022 model year achieved the highest NHTSA Safety Index in the covered range at 80 out of 100, earning a Strong band rating. If safety is a priority, the 2022 model is the clear choice within this generation.
- Side-impact crash protection is the EcoSport's strongest crash-test result, earning 5 out of 5 stars in its best year. However, the 4-out-of-5 frontal rating means it does not match the top frontal performers in the subcompact SUV class.
- Owner complaints across 2019 to 2022 total 1,098, with alleged crashes, fires, injuries, and deaths among the reported categories. These are unverified allegations filed with NHTSA, not confirmed incidents, but the complaint volume is high enough that prospective buyers should review the specific complaint categories on NHTSA's website for the model year they are considering.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Ford Ecosport with 3 recalls.