The 2019 Ford EcoSport and Chevrolet Trax both offer a thrifty, comfy take on modern cruising. These small crossovers are also stacked with safety aids and smartphone integration gear.
With everything they have in common, choosing between them can seem like an impossible task. Cue our comparison guide. We’ll walk you through these crossovers’ important differences, so you can make the right choice.
Most for Your Money: 2019 Ford EcoSport
You can save money on up-front costs simply by choosing the EcoSport, a crossover that starts at just $19,995. The Chevrolet Trax is only a little more expensive, with a starting price of $21,300. The difference is enough for an extra weekend getaway or a head start on an investment portfolio, certainly nothing to sneeze at.
Besides being less expensive, the EcoSport is also the better value. The Ford comes standard with everything you need for a thoroughly modern drive, including safety aids like hill start assist and a rearview camera.
Best Budget-Friendly Road Trips: It’s a Tie!
These small crossovers draw a crowd with their thrifty EPA ratings. Both the 2019 Ford EcoSport and the Chevrolet Trax return up to 28 miles per gallon combined. The EcoSport does a little better around town, earning up to 27 city and 29 highway mpg. And the Trax is a little thriftier on the highway with up to 26 city and 31 highway mpg. If choosing between these crossovers comes down to on-road thriftiness, consider whether you do more city or highway driving.
Cushiest Commute: 2019 Ford EcoSport
When you’re looking for the smoothest-riding, cushiest crossover, the EcoSport stands up to scrutiny. Ford’s latest crossover was designed for modern American drivers, meeting the demands of a daily commute with generous seating support and snug bolstering. Comfort-inducing options, like dual-zone climate control and heated front seats, are within easy reach—they’re standard on the midgrade SE trim and up.
It might be compact, but the Chevrolet Trax is also known for its roomy cabin and comfortable seating. But—and this is a pretty big but—the Trax’s ride isn’t quite as smooth as what you’ll enjoy in the EcoSport.
Streamlined Technology: 2019 Ford EcoSport
The EcoSport keeps you connected, but this Ford also helps you keep from getting distracted. Thanks to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, the SYNC 3 infotainment system displays apps like maps and music on the 8-inch touchscreen. You can even use your phone’s voice controls to call for takeout or search for the nearest gas station. This hands-free technology gives you the advantage in heavy traffic.
In the tech department, the Trax is a heavyweight contender. Its MyLink infotainment system is easy to use, if not as quick on the uptake as Ford’s SYNC 3. When you subscribe to OnStar, Chevy’s emergency telematics system, you also get a Wi-Fi connection. As long as you don’t mind paying a little extra, this is a nice feature to have for long trips.
The Chevrolet Trax might have some tricks up its sleeve, but the 2019 Ford EcoSport goes above and beyond our expectations. With its savvy tech gear, cushy seating, and money-saving performance, it’s hard to say no to the EcoSport.