Car comparo: Ford EcoSport vs. Chevrolet Trax for best subcompact crossover

With their size, car-like comfort and amenities, and go-anywhere capabilities, subcompact crossovers have recently increased in popularity. This gave us the reason to compare 2 of the segment’s models; the Ford EcoSport and the Chevrolet Trax.

For this comparo, we’ll focus on the top-of-the-line Ford EcoSport 1.5 Titanium Powershift and the range-topping Chevrolet Trax 1.4 LT AT. This is to highlight the best offerings each nameplate has in store. To start things off, let’s look at their respective selling prices.

Price

The EcoSport presents a P985,000 price tag. On the other hand, the Trax is sold higher at P1,218,888. Looking at these figures, it’s evident that the EcoSport takes this round by a long shot because it’s P238,888 cheaper than the Trax. With that amount, you can either accessorize the EcoSport to make it look more muscular, or you can invest on more important things like insurance, housing loan, or education for you or your kids.

But just think for a moment; is the Trax’s higher suggested retail price (SRP) worth it? We’re about to find out. Up next, let’s take a look at what powers these 2 models.

Performance

Under the hood of the EcoSport is a 1.5L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine that generates 110 hp and 142 Nm of torque. It’s then paired to a 6-speed Powershift automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the Trax moves with a gasoline-fed 1.4L inline 4-cylinder engine which puts out 138 hp and 200 Nm. Drivers can then maximize this output using a 6-speed automatic gearbox with manual shift mode.

The Trax wins this round because of its higher performance output. This means that when it comes to power delivery and torque pull, the Trax gets the upper hand. 

Dimension

When parked side-by-side, both models share a 4,245 mm body length. But the Trax’s 1,775 mm width makes it 10 mm wider than the EcoSport. The EcoSport, however, stands tall at 1,708 mm, that’s 38 mm taller than the Trax. But when it comes to wheelbase length, the Trax stretches further at 2,555 mm, whereas the EcoSport measures 34 mm shorter.

This means that the Trax scores another point in this comparo because its wider body and longer wheelbase may provide occupants with better leg and shoulder rooms. In addition, the Trax can carry more and bigger luggage like camping gears with its 1,371 maximum cargo space. By comparison, the EcoSport can only carry up to 701 L of cargo.

Interior

Interior-wise, the EcoSport offer things such as leather upholstery, push-button engine start-stop, and electronic air temperature control. It also comes with a 6-speaker audio system with tuner/MP3/Aux/USB support, Bluetooth connectivity, and a sunroof. 

The Trax, on the other hand, has added tech amenities. These include cruise control, and a navigation-ready MyLink infotainment system with radio/MP3/Bluetooth support. What it lacks though is a 12-volt power outlet, which is present on the EcoSport. This can come in handy for charging cell phones or other gadgets on the go.

In this round, we give both models 1 point each.

Safety/Technology

When it comes to safety, both models offer dual front passenger airbags. But the Trax has side, curtain, and knee airbags for additional occupant protection. Both also come with anti-lock braking systems (ABS).  

The EcoSport also has electronic stability control (ESC) and hill-launch assist for better braking and control on slippery, inclined surfaces. The Trax, on the other hand, comes with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and cornering brake control for improved stability and braking on corners and different road conditions.

Moreover, the EcoSport offers ISOFIX child seat anchors, while the Trax comes with Stabilitrak traction control system. Both models exchange blows evenly in this round, that’s why we’ve decided to end this with a tie.

With a final score of 2 – 1, it’s the Chevrolet Trax that comes out on top in this head-to-head comparo. Though it may not be as cheap as the EcoSport, it justifies its higher SRP with better power output ratings, more spacious interior, and high-tech features.  

But this doesn’t mean that the Ford EcoSport lags far behind. For starters, it looks sportier than the Trax and has an easier to access spare tire. Its 12-volt power outlet is also handy for emergencies or outdoor activities.

If you want to compare these 2 vehicles, visit the AutoDeal Comparison Tool.