The Ford Focus III Wagon (facelift, 2014) 1.5 TDCi 95 horsepower Start/Stop variant represents a significant entry point into the third generation Focus lineup, particularly in European markets. Introduced as part of the mid-cycle refresh in 2014, this model aimed to provide a fuel-efficient and practical option for families and individuals seeking a versatile station wagon. Production continued through 2018. This specific configuration occupied the lower-mid range of the Focus Wagon offerings, positioned below the more powerful diesel and gasoline engines, and above the base trim levels. It was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and everyday usability over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus III Wagon (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (95 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 98 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.2 kg/Hp, 61.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1500-2000 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XXDA, XXDC |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.5 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.85 l (4.07 US qt | 3.39 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1537 kg (3388.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 363 kg (800.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 476 l (16.81 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1502 l (53.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4556 mm (179.37 in.) |
| Width | 1823 mm (71.77 in.) |
| Height | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2648 mm (104.25 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Focus Wagon is the 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine, specifically utilizing the XXDA or XXDC engine codes depending on the exact specification and market. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A key feature is its turbocharger with intercooler, which helps to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a diesel common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The Start/Stop system, denoted by the “S&S” designation, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 95 horsepower output, coupled with 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque, provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 12.2 seconds. The engine’s torque peak, available from 1500-2000 rpm, makes it reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, offering sufficient pulling power for overtaking and navigating hills. Compared to the higher-output 1.5 TDCi variants or the gasoline engines, this version feels noticeably less powerful. The manual transmission, with its six gears, is geared for economy, with taller ratios in the upper gears to maximize fuel efficiency on the highway. The driving experience is generally comfortable and refined, prioritizing fuel economy and practicality over sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 95 hp S&S typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if not luxurious, design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, parking sensors, and a navigation system. Trim levels varied by market, but this engine was often found in mid-range trims, offering a balance between price and features.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus Wagon utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employs an independent multi-link system, further enhancing ride quality and stability. Brakes are disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear, which was a common configuration for this weight class and price point. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and safety. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi 95 hp S&S variant was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel economy figures – around 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg) combined – were a major selling point. Compared to the more powerful diesel versions, it offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. Against gasoline-powered Focus Wagons, it provided superior fuel economy but a slightly less refined driving experience. Reliability was generally good, although, like all modern diesel engines, it could be susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys periodically.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a durable and reliable powertrain. The Focus III Wagon 1.5 TDCi 95 hp S&S remains a popular choice on the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient station wagon. While not the most exciting vehicle to drive, its practicality, economy, and relatively low maintenance costs make it a sensible option for everyday transportation. The availability of spare parts is good, and the engine is generally well-understood by mechanics, contributing to its continued appeal.
