The Ford Focus III Sedan (facelift, 2014) 1.5 TDCi 95 horsepower variant, equipped with the Start/Stop system, represented an entry-level diesel option within the refreshed third generation Focus lineup. Introduced in 2014 and continuing through 2018, this model aimed to provide fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for everyday commuting and family use. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines held significant market share. This particular configuration occupied the lower end of the Focus Sedan range, positioned below higher-powered diesel and gasoline variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus III Sedan (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 | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| 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 | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.2 kg/Hp, 70.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.7 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 | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1345 kg (2965.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 372 l (13.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4534 mm (178.5 in.) |
| Width | 1823 mm (71.77 in.) |
| Height | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2648 mm (104.25 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine, specifically utilizing the XXDA or XXDC engine codes depending on the specific market and production date. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and efficiency. The engine utilizes 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 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 to 60 mph takes around 11.5 to 12.1 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 119.92 mph. The engine’s torque peak, available from 1500-2000 rpm, makes it reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, offering sufficient power for overtaking and merging onto highways. Compared to higher-output versions of the Focus, such as those with the 1.5 TDCi 120 hp or gasoline engines, this variant feels noticeably slower. The manual transmission, with its six gears, is geared for fuel economy, meaning higher gears are engaged at lower speeds. This contributes to quiet cruising but can require downshifting for quicker acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 95 hp S&S typically served as the entry-level diesel trim. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic audio system (often with USB connectivity), and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and a trip computer. Trim levels varied by market, but this engine was often found in ‘LX’ or ‘Trend’ specification, representing a balance between affordability and essential features.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus III Sedan utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a coil spring/anti-roll bar setup. The rear suspension employed an independent multi-link system, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Brakes were disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, a cost-saving measure common in entry-level trims. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, making it suitable for everyday driving, though it wasn’t as sporty as some of the higher-performance Focus variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi 95 hp S&S variant was generally well-received for its fuel efficiency and low running costs. Critics praised its economy figures (around 62 mpg combined) but noted its relatively modest performance. Compared to the 1.6-liter TDCi engines found in earlier Focus models, the 1.5 TDCi offered improved refinement and fuel economy. Against the more powerful diesel options within the Focus range, this variant appealed to drivers prioritizing economy over outright speed. Its reliability was generally considered good, though, like all diesel engines, it was susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys periodically.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine proved to be a durable and reliable unit when properly maintained. In the used car market, these Focus Sedans are often sought after by buyers looking for an economical and practical vehicle. The Start/Stop system, while contributing to fuel savings, has been known to experience occasional issues with the dual-mass flywheel and starter motor. Overall, the 1.5 TDCi 95 hp S&S Focus Sedan remains a viable option for those seeking a fuel-efficient and reasonably reliable compact sedan, particularly in regions where diesel fuel is readily available and affordable.
