Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost prices

Ford is introducing its most economical petrol engine to the Focus hatch. The all-new 1.0 EcoBoost turbo three-cylinder was developed by engineers at the firm's UK facilities in Dunton and Dagenham, Essex, and they usher in a new era of efficiency.

Two power outputs will be offered in the Ford Focus, one with 123bhp, the other with 99bhp. The former returns 56.5mpg and emissions of 114g/km, while the 99bhp engine can do 58.9mpg and has 109g/km emissions. Despite the small capacity, Ford claims that the 123bhp version matches the current naturally aspirated 1.6-litre engine for performance. The firm also claims a torque figure of 170Nm (200Nm with overboost) from 1,400rpm means it's comparable to the 1.6-litre for response. 

The 123bhp version is available only with a six-speed manual in Zetec models and above, while the second variant makes 99bhp uses a five-speed manual. Both versions qualify for free road tax in their first year, with duty thereafter a mere £20 for the 99bhp version and £30 for the 123bhp unit. When compared to the similarly powered Focus 1.6-litre, this represents a saving of £115 for the first year and £95 and £85 in following years. The tax benefits also mean up to a £32 per month saving over a Focus Zetec for company car drivers. 

“Gone are the days when the number of cylinders dictates performance,” said Ford Britain managing director Mark Ovenden. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine will also be offered in the Ford C-MAX, Grand C-MAX and new Fiesta-based B-MAX later this year.

The Ford Focus EcoBoost range starts at £16,245 for the 99bhp Edge manual, which is a £250 premium over the 1.6-litre petrol, and the 123bhp engine starts at £17,745 in Zetec spec. The EcoBoost range goes on sale in March.