Comparing two cars such can be a bit tricky at times. There are so many variables that must be looked into that at times it can get overwhelming and even hopeless. That is why it is essential to take it to step by step and concentrate on the factors that mean something to you and what your lifestyle is all about or will be able in the near future.
Now the factors that mean something to you may be unique to your individual needs, but there are a few that everyone should understand before making such a large investment including the manufacturer, the body, and the performance. So, for this lesson on the art of comparing, we will compare the 2018 Ford EcoSport which starts at an affordable $19,995 and the 2018 Nissan Kicks which starts just a bit under at $17,990. The 2018 Ford EcoSport vs. 2018 Nissan Kicks are two of the most compact SUVs on the market. Their convenient size is only outmatched by their ability to utilize every inch of it perfectly.
Understand the Manufacturer
A factor that many people seem to discount without understanding the importance is the manufacturer of the car. These are the people that are the voice and vision of the vehicle you are choosing and as such are the greatest determination of which factors will be highlighted as well as overall reliability. In this case, we have Ford and Nissan as the two competing manufacturers.
Ford has always had a place in the hearts of Americans ever since it was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. It is almost impossible to think of automobiles and not think of Ford. Their long history speaks for itself as a manufacturer that has always shown pride in their work and never failed to present tough and dependable vehicles. Their vision has always been a simple and clear one, work together to make the lives of every type of person better through the use of reliable automotive innovation. If it comes from Ford, you should feel secure in knowing that you are buying something that is well known, and well made.
Nissan is a Japanese manufacturer that only falls short of its greatest competitors Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai. Built in 1933, 30 years after Ford, Nissan has since made an established name for itself and is now a global name that has become a fair option for many Americans. Currently, Nissan is one of the largest sellers of electric vehicles which are said to be cost-efficient and a clean alternative to traditional car energy sources. What this says about Nissan is that they are working towards a better future for all and enjoy thinking outside of the norm.
Both Ford and Nissan have their own vision, while Ford is pushing to make every day better with its reliability, Nissan works to get a jump on the future with its innovation. So, make sure you choose the manufacturer that has the voice that speaks to you.
Understand the Body
Considering both the 2018 Ford EcoSport and 2018 Nissan Kicks are in the same vehicle class it may seem pointless to discuss body type, at least not as much as you would if it was a pickup and a sedan, but it is still important to recognize the subtle differences.
Starting with the dimensions, the 2018 Ford EcoSport is 161″ L x 70″ W x 65″ H, while the 2018 Nissan Kicks is a just a smidge larger at 169″ L x 69″ W x 62″ H. This may not seem like much but anyone who has attempted to parallel park in a crowded urban street will understand that even an inch can make all the difference. The 2018 EcoSport is also heavier with a curb weight of 3,020 to 3,360 lbs. compared to the 2018 Kicks 2,639 to 2,672 lbs.; they both have a 17-inch turning radius though.
In overall presence they both hold a lot of appeals, but the 2018 Ford EcoSport pulls ahead with its sleek structure, modern flair, stunning color options such as the Blue Candy and Race Red, bold front grille and lights, and pulling it all together to create a vehicle that will fit in perfectly with your everyday life without being either boring or obtrusive. The 2018 Kicks design seems more about presenting originality more than sensibility, but the black top and bottom lining and color studio to add unique color trim options on the handles, mirrors, and wheels is something any art enthusiast may enjoy.
Inside both vehicles fit the same five adults sized passengers, but the 2018 Ford EcoSport has a much larger cargo space availability with 50 ft³ overall once you minus the fold in seating, compared to the 2018 Kicks overall 32.3 ft³ of cargo space.
Understand the Performance
Performances are what makes your car not just fast, but easy to handle and play a large role in the reliability you can expect in the future.
The 2018 Ford EcoSport offers two brilliantly designed engines that make this compact zoom and handle on a dime. The first option is a 1.0L EcoBoost® engine with Auto Start-Stop technology to save you some much-needed fuel. It offers 123 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque to give you just enough push to get you where you need to be in the most efficient way. The second option is a 2.0L Ti-VCT I-4 engine with 4WD and also contains Auto Start-Stop tech. This engine contains an increased 166 hp and 149 lb-ft of torque. Both models contain a 6-speed automatic transmission for your handling ease.
The 2018 Nissan Kicks offers one engine and a continuous variable transmission (CVT). It has a fair horsepower of 125 hp and 115 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to power, the 2018 Kicks cannot compete with the 2018 EcoSport, but it still has one advantage, the fuel economy. Nissan is known for its EV lineup so it makes sense that this model would have an impressive fuel economy at 36 mpg highway compared to the Eco-sports 29 mpg highway.
When comparing two vehicles, it is always essential to take a look at the things you may have decided were unimportant because they may turn out to be what helps push you just enough towards a final decision. Things like manufacturer and body type may seem to make very little difference, but it is in those little differences you can see how well a car matches exactly what you stand for.
