The Ford Focus III Wagon (facelift, 2014) 1.6 Ti-VCT 85 hp variant represents an entry-level offering within the third generation Focus lineup, produced from 2014 to 2018. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, this model catered to buyers prioritizing affordability and everyday usability over outright performance. It was primarily sold in European markets, where compact wagons remain a popular body style. The facelift brought updated styling and minor technological improvements to the Focus range, enhancing its appeal in a competitive segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus III Wagon (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Ti-VCT (85 Hp) |
| 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) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.3 kg/Hp, 57.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.4 kg/Nm, 95.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 141 Nm @ 2500 rpm (104 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XTDB |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1473 kg (3247.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 352 kg (776.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 476 l (16.81 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1502 l (53.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 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 and type of gearbox | 5 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 variant is the 1.6-liter Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing) inline-four cylinder engine, designated XTDB. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging. The Ti-VCT system allows for independent control of both intake and exhaust valve timing, optimizing engine performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 85 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 141 Nm (104 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. This engine is known for its relative simplicity and durability, though it lacks the outright power of larger displacement or turbocharged alternatives. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The transmission is a five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and simplicity.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Ti-VCT 85 hp engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 14.3 seconds, and top speed is limited to 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than spirited driving. The engine feels somewhat strained when accelerating hard, particularly when fully loaded or on inclines. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost or 1.5 EcoBoost variants, this engine offers significantly less power and torque. However, it provides a smoother and more predictable power delivery than some of the smaller turbocharged engines, and the manual transmission allows for greater driver control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Ti-VCT 85 hp model typically represented the base trim level in the Focus Wagon range. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as front and side airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, cruise control, and rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively basic design. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus III Wagon utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes are discs, while the rear brakes are drums – a cost-saving measure common in entry-level models. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and everyday usability rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 Ti-VCT 85 hp Focus Wagon was generally well-received as a practical and affordable option. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the more powerful EcoBoost variants, this model offered lower running costs but a less engaging driving experience. The 1.6-liter engine was considered reliable, but its relatively low output meant it was often pushed to its limits when carrying passengers or cargo. Fuel economy figures of around 39.2 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The 1.6 Ti-VCT engine, while not known for its performance, proved to be a durable and relatively trouble-free unit. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and reliable family wagon. Maintenance costs are generally low, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power output and the basic nature of the standard equipment. The Focus III Wagon 1.6 Ti-VCT 85 hp remains a viable option for those prioritizing practicality and economy over performance.
