The Ford Galaxy III 1.5 EcoBoost (160 hp) S&S represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-running minivan line, produced between 2015 and 2018. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Galaxy III generation (introduced in 2015, based on the CD270 platform shared with the Ford S-Max and Mondeo), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for family transport. The Galaxy, traditionally popular in Europe as a spacious and versatile people carrier, offered a compelling alternative to larger MPVs and SUVs. This particular engine and transmission combination was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing running costs and ease of driving over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Galaxy |
| Generation | Galaxy III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBoost (160 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | UNCJ, UNCK |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.02 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.05 l (4.28 US qt | 3.56 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1633 kg (3600.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 877 kg (1933.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2339 l (82.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4848 mm (190.87 in.) |
| Width | 1916 mm (75.43 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1953 mm (76.89 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2849 mm (112.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 124 mm (4.88 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/55 R17; 235/50 R18; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Galaxy variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline-four cylinder engine, specifically utilizing the UNCJ or UNCK engine codes. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, characterized by a combination of direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and variable valve timing. The direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The single scroll turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power without significantly sacrificing fuel economy. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and driver control. The engine’s Start & Stop system further contributes to fuel savings by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp EcoBoost engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.5 seconds, and top speed is rated at 121.17 mph. While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine provides sufficient torque (240 Nm) across a broad rev range (1500-4500 rpm), making it suitable for carrying passengers and luggage. The manual transmission allows for greater driver engagement and control compared to automatic options. However, the power delivery isn’t as immediate or forceful as found in higher-output Galaxy variants, such as those equipped with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel somewhat strained when climbing hills or accelerating quickly with a full load.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBoost S&S trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options like a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, leather upholstery, heated seats, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Galaxy III utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. 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 stability rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 EcoBoost variant was generally well-received by critics as a sensible and economical option within the Galaxy lineup. It offered a good balance between fuel efficiency and practicality, making it appealing to families seeking a spacious and affordable people carrier. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost models, the 1.5-liter version offered better fuel economy but lacked the same level of performance. The 1.5 EcoBoost was also often compared to diesel-powered Galaxy variants, with the diesel engines offering superior torque and fuel economy, but at the cost of increased emissions and potential maintenance costs.
Legacy
The 1.5 EcoBoost engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the timing chain and carbon buildup on the intake valves. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fuel system cleaning, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the Galaxy III 1.5 EcoBoost represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious and practical minivan. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for families on a budget. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues with the timing chain and intake valves and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
