Ford Focus 1.6 EcoBoost video review

Exclusive video review of Ford's all-new Focus with the 180bhp EcoBoost petrol engine.

By Sam Hardy January 2011

We’ve tried Ford’s latest direct-injection EcoBoost turbo engines in the C-MAX, Mondeo and S-MAX – but this is our first taste of the new 180bhp 1.6-litre, which debuts in the Focus and goes on sale in November.

On paper, it’s impressive: as well as the headline power output, there’s 240Nm of torque, which peaks at 270Nm during full-throttle overtaking moves. All that translates to a 0-62mph time of only 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 138mph – performance figures most hot hatchbacks wouldn’t be ashamed of.

Read the full review of the new Ford Focus 1.6 EcoBoost

On the move, the engine is a real peach. It’s super smooth, linear in its delivery and hugely flexible, and happy to pull hard from low revs, sit quietly on the motorway – thanks to a long sixth gear – or race to the 6,000rpm red line, showing no let up in punch.

Read our review of the top of the range 2.0 TDCI diesel

Throw in a snappy six-speed manual box, a taut yet comfortable ride and that premium cabin, and it’s a great all-rounder.

The one fly in the ointment is the price. In Titanium trim, this 180bhp model is expected to cost around £21,000. Yes, it is the range-topper (at least until the 247bhp ST arrives later in the year), but that’s a lot to pay for a compact family car.

More worrying is the fact that the cheapest EcoBoost-powered Focus you can buy is the 148bhp version – available only in Titanium trim, at £19,745. There’s no doubt the Ford is a great car, but the prices are hard to swallow.

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine.
We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!