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Here is the new Holden Trax vs 2014 Ford EcoSport comparison. Like the 2013 Ford Ecosport these to small SUVs are due to be released later in 2013 we gathered the specifications for you to compare before the actual release. At the time of this post though the Holden Trax has been announced and available for purchase from September 2013. Now that we’ve sampled both the conclusion will surprise you!
First of all the Holden Trax is not a small SUV! It is small but it has a bulk that is more in common with say the bigger Holden Capitva rather than the Ford Ecosport. We think the Trax is too large to be considered as a true competitor to the Ford and really should be considered against the larger small SUVs like VW Tiguan or even the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Besides the Holden Trax is TOO expensive in this comparison if it wants to compete. We truly believe a $20,990 is the best place to start since it is only front wheel drive. If the Ford Ecosport can retail from a base of around $20,000 it will be the small SUV to buy.
In terms of looks the Trax on the road is modern but ungainly and a little cheap to look at. The pictures look great but in real life is not quite a pleasing. The proportions in some parts a great! but others no so. The interior is definitely class standard meaning looks great in pictures but merely Ok in real life. The Trax interior is a Ok place to be but a 5 year Golf has better materials and build that it does make you wonder…
The engine choice is also a let down as is the claimed fuel economy. The engine is a relatively low tech and certainly low power unit compared to other small SUVs. Thankfully the safety equipment is comprehensive but like any other new small car these days but in-car entertainment is class leading although still sounds on the average side and a faulty screen didn’t help.
The Ford Ecosport is better looking on the outside and based on what we know is the right size and hopefully the right price for this market segment. The interior design is modern and supposed to be based on the Ford Fiesta which will make it class average in terms of quality. The base engine should be good since the Ecosport is the lighter car but if it comes with the 0.9 turbo should be quite a fast small SUV. However the biggest problem the Ford Ecosport will need to overcome is build quality! The quality of materials are just as good as the Trax but it is the build quality or the way the Ecosport was put together will definitely raise an eyebrow or two. straight cut rubbers and wobbly window trim to start with is frankly it’s not good enough!
To conclude so far we think that the new Holden Trax is overpriced in this comparison based on the assumption that the base Ford Ecosport will retail for around $20,000 AUD, however it’s safety tech is great, engines are poor, in car entertainment is very good, looks ok. The end result is just another average small SUV without a 4WD system. The Ford Ecosport is smaller and cheaper, looks better. Ford will need to overcome the not so good build quality before the Ecosport will succeed. Until then it you want one perhaps the Trax will do but you will have to pay more. Then again the Nissan Juke is easily better than either!
Holden Trax | Ford Ecosport |
Engines | |
4 Cylinder Petrol 1.8 Litre (1796cc) 91 Octane DOHC EFI Claimed 103Kw @ 6300RPM Claimed 175Nm @ 3800RPM |
3 Cylinder Ecoboost 0.9 Litre (999cc) petrol Turbo DOHC VVT EFI Claimed 92Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 170Nm @ 1400RPM |
4 Cylinder 1.5 Litre (1498cc) petrol DOHC VVT EFI Claimed 82Kw @ 6300RPM Claimed 140Nm @ 4400RPM |
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Weight | |
Kerb weight Approx 1371Kg Towing capacity up to xxxxkg |
Kerb weight FROM 1242 kg Towing capacity up to 700kg |
Fuel capacity & consumption | |
Up to 53 litres IL4 1.8 7.6 litres per 100km (petrol) |
Up to 52 litres IL4 0.9 Petrol Turbo 5.7 litres per 100km IL4 1.5 Petrol 6.5 litres per 100km |
Other specifications | |
5 speed manual or 6 speed Auto Overall height/width 1674/1776 Overall length/wheelbase 4278/2555 4WD system: None ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: 205-70-16 215-55-18 |
5 speed manual or 6 speed Auto Overall height/width 1708/1765 Overall length/wheelbase 3999/2520 4WD system: None ANCAP Safety: ?/5 Tyre size: xxx-xx-xx |
Capability | |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 180mm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach 25 Departure 35 Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 200mm Water Fording depth 550mm Max |
Performance | |
1.6 Petrol 0-100kph 12 secs | 0-100kph 10.9 Secs |
Pricing | |
2013 FROM $23,490 – 27,990 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! |
2014 $20,790 – 27,790 AUD |