Head to Head

Car enthusiasts are always on the lookout for what's new in the country's car scene. Our featured cars in this week's Head-to-Head are two of the latest models that have made a grand entrance in the market. But where do they differ and what's so similar about them? We'll find out as we check out the Ford EcoSport and the Honda BR-V. Here it is.

Our first agenda: check what's under the hood of the EcoSport and the BR-V.

The BR-V is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine that produces 120 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the EcoSport runs on a 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-3 EcoBoost unit that gives out 123 horsepower and 170Nm of torque. For the cars' transmissions, the BR-V comes with a 7-speed Continuously Variable Transmission. For the EcoSport, it comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Two different engine layouts, but both make the most out of the powertrain.

When it comes to the two cars' suspension setup, both of them use MacPherson Strut at the front and Torsion Beam at the rear. This setup works for both the BR-V and the EcoSport in facing road imperfections.

Let's now check out the exterior and interior of the two SUVs.

The BR-V bears some details from another Honda car, although it has its own characteristics that make it stand out on its own. At the front, we see slim, wraparound headlights and the maker's signature "Solid Wing Face" fascia. A pair of roof rails also boosts the SUV's practicality. At the rear, it has C-shaped tail lights that are connected by a reflective strip. It gives the BR-V a tougher appearance, albeit in a smaller package.

On the other hand, the EcoSport likewise adopts some details that other Ford models have. It has the same front fascia, grille, and even the fog lights and the headlights. The only recognizable changes in the exterior of the newest EcoSport are the unique A-pillars which create curves at the bottom. They are obviously positioned to highlight the striking edges of the car's hood, giving it a sporty vibes.

Let's have a tour inside our featured vehicles.

The interior of the BR-V is just like its exteriors in a sense that it screams Honda. Everything is wrapped up in leather upholstery, giving away that elegant feels to it. It comes with automatic climate control, a touchscreen and second-row air-conditioning. Since the BR-V is a seven-seater, it has a generous amount of space.

The infotainment system of the BR-V is equipped with Garmin-powered 7-inch touchscreen with Navigation with Bluetooth and USB connectivity as well. Entertainment is courtesy of 4 speakers.

Meanwhile, inside the EcoSport, it's the same with the BR-V where everything is black. From the seats to the steering wheel, everything is wrapped in leather. The EcoSport comes with a spacious cabin as well, ensuring comfortable trip for both driver and passengers. It has enough space for up to 5 people.

The EcoSport's infotainment comes with an 8.0-inch Sync3 touchscreen integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto since it's a top-spec variant. Meanwhile, audio is enjoyable through 7 speakers.

For safety and security, both the EcoSport and the BR-V come with the needed features such as Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Stability Control, among others. However, the EcoSport is equipped with 6 airbags while the BR-V only comes with dual airbags.

That was our Head-to-Head this week, courtesy of the Ford EcoSport and the Honda BR-V-two models that you can't say no to, unless you prefer one more than the other. Whatever your choice is, we believe it's a good one. We hope you enjoyed our feature this week.