Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport (/ˈɛkoʊspɔːrt/ EK-oh-sport) is a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) manufactured by Ford between 2003 and 2022.

The first-generation model was developed and built in Brazil by Ford Brazil since 2003, at the Camaçari plant. The second-generation model was launched in 2012, which was assembled in factories in India, Thailand, Russia and Romania. The vehicle entered the European market in 2014 and the North American market in 2018. It was sold in both until its discontinuation after the 2022 model year. Throughout its existence, the EcoSport shared its platform with the Fiesta.

The first generation EcoSport was designed by Ford Brazil Development Center under the program code BV226, and the codename "Amazon Project". It is based on the European Fiesta and Fusion MPV, sharing the same Ford B3 platform.

The EcoSport became one of Ford's best-seller models in Brazil, consistently appearing on the twenty best selling vehicles. It was also popular in Argentina, Venezuela, and Mexico. Its main competitors were the Fiat Palio Adventure and Volkswagen CrossFox. In 2011, cumulative sales reached 700,000.

The EcoSport was available with five straight-four engines:

All models have front-wheel drive with manual transmission as standard. The 2.0 L model can also receive a four speed automatic transmission (FWD only) or four-wheel drive (manual six speed only). In the latter case, an electronically controlled system automatically engages the rear axle when front wheel spin is detected, and also lets the driver manually engage the rear axle from the dashboard.

At the end of 2007, a mid-cycle restyling was introduced, which renewed completely the front to bring it closer to then current Ford pickups, as well as the contemporary Brazilian restyling of the Ford Fiesta. Also updated were the rear lights, both bumpers, and the interior with a new dashboard using better quality materials.

The Ford EcoSport arrived in Mexico in late 2003 as a 2004 model. The reception by the public was impressive and continued until 2006. For the model year of 2007, sales of the small SUV began slipping and it stopped being a hot seller. Compared to 15,000 units sold in 2004, only 10,000 units of the model year of 2007 were sold. This trend continued to worsen for the refreshed model year of 2008 due in part to a price increase.