Ford Focus 1-litre Ecoboost

Six word summary

Ford engine downsizing proves a success

What is it?

Ford’s latest model within its ‘Econetic’ range, and the company’s most serious effort, to date, to compete with the likes of Volkswagen’s TSI and Fiat’s TwinAir downsizing technologies.

What’s it like?

Impressive. Considering the same amount of power is available here as is found in the 1.6-litre Duractec engine, the performance from the 999cc three-cylinder engine is more than adequate. Add in the advantage of a 18% saving in fuel economy, and 16% drop in emissions (114g/km), and the Ecoboost is a very sensible option for Focus buyers.

Expanding on the popular Ford Focus range, this turbocharged model will be a welcome addition for those looking to reduce fuel and tax bills, without completely compromising on performance. Admittedly, our car came with the higher powered 1-litre variant of the engine (with 123bhp and 170Nm of torque, as opposed to the 98bhp version), but there was enough evidence to suggest that even the base model will not disappoint. Some hills do require a change down through a gear or two, but it is almost to be expected from an engine that can fit on a sheet of A4 paper. We may not have quite reached the claimed combined consumption figure of 56.5mpg, but close to 40mpg for 200 mainly urban miles is not too bad in our eyes.

The engine’s performance is matched with ride and handling, the Focus’ trademark steering working well with the smaller, lighter powertrain, offering precise feel, and feedback through corners. Progress over most surfaces was smooth, and a welcome level of refinement could be found throughout the rev range, even at motorway speeds.

Arm most people car powered by a 1-litre engine, and the motorway is the last place you would expect them to head to, but this Focus feels right at home in this environment, and you actually forget the cubic capacity of the powerplant under the bonnet.

This car’s arrival provided our first opportunity to sample Ford’s ‘innovative’ door edge protectors. They may be useful for those that aren’t great with spacial awareness, but the rattle you hear when closing the door is enough to make you think part of the interior has fallen off.

Verdict

As big fans of the current Focus range, the EcoBoost further enhances its credentials. The 1-litre has already been voted International Engine of the Year, and it is easy to see what impressed the judges. Prices start at £16,245 for the 98bhp model, and £17,745 for the 123bhp, which is just an increase of £250 over the 1.6-litre-engined model. At that price it would be well worth a look.