Small SUVs are one of the top choices when it comes to cars. In this week’s Head-to-Head, we have two small SUVs which names come up when talking about their segment. It’s none other than the Ford EcoSport and the Mazda CX-3. Let’s find out more about these raved vehicles. Watch this.
Let’s start by comparing the two cars’ powertrain.
Powering the 2018 Ford EcoSport is a 1.0-litermturbocharged inline-3 EcoBoost unit that generously gives out 123 horsepower and 170Nm of torque. This layout makes this newest EcoSport the EcoSport Titanium. Meanwhile, the CX-3 runs on a 2-liter Skyactiv-G 4-cylinder engine that produces 148 ps of power and 192 Nm of torque. Comparing the two powertrains, the CX-3 has higher figures compared to the EcoSport. Although looking at their transmission, both cars are equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions, which allow them to be responsive in both urban or highway settings.
Enough for the oily parts.Let’s head onto the exterior designs of the EcoSport and the CX-3.
There are a lot of differences in the two cars’ design, but both of their exteriors scream their respective brands. The new EcoSport adopts the traditional look of its predecessors, which is evident in the front fascia, grille, and even the fog lights and the headlights. The only new and recognizable updates here are these A-pillars which create curves at the bottom. You can tell that Ford put them here to highlight the striking edges of the car’s hood and to give it a sporty vibes.
On the other hand, the CX-3 follows Mazda’s KODO design language. However, many have said that the CX-3 has the best KODO design so far. The front fascia is highlightedby a massive grille that comes with sharp lines. There’s also this unpainted plastic cladding that matches the overall dynamic of the car.The exterior of the CX-3 is sleek, but not overdone.
But not everything is about the exteriors, right? Let’s hop inside the two cars.
Inside the EcoSport, the most prominent color is black. The seats and the steering wheel are wrapped in black leather, providing that elegant feel to it. The EcoSport comes with a spacious cabin as well, ensuring comfortable trip for both driver and passengers.
For the infotainment system, with an 8.0-inch Sync3 touchscreen integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto since this is a top-of-the-line variant. Sound is enjoyable through 7 speakers.
Meanwhile, the inside of the CX-3 is mostly covered in black as well, and just like with the EcoSport, everything is wrapped in leather. The KODO design is still visible in the interiors. The steering wheel offers great adjustment, and the controls are easy to navigate. Additionally, the dashboard holds the infotainment screen nicely.
And speaking of the infotainment system of the CX-3, the entertainment is courtesy of 7-inch touchscreen LCD, Single-DVD Player, MP3, which is available in USB, AUX, and Bluetooth connectivity, and comes with 6 speakers and amplifiers.
For safety and security, both theEcoSport and the CX come with the needed and important features such as Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Stability Control, ISOFIX, among other features. The only difference is that the CX-3 comes with only 4 airbags while the EcoSport comes with 6.
Both the Ford EcoSport and the Mazda CX-3 are good choices. At the end of the day, it’s really up to what you prefer for yourself or your family. That’s it for our Head-to-Head this week.
