The Ford Focus III Sedan, specifically the 1.6 TDCi variant produced during the 2014-2015 facelift, represented a key offering in Ford’s global compact car lineup. Introduced as a more practical and affordable alternative to the hatchback, the sedan version of the Focus aimed to capture a broader market, particularly in regions where sedan body styles were preferred. This particular engine and transmission combination – the 1.6-liter turbodiesel producing 115 horsepower paired with a six-speed manual transmission – occupied a mid-range position within the Focus sedan’s trim levels, balancing fuel efficiency with acceptable performance. It was positioned below the more powerful diesel options and above the base gasoline engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus III Sedan (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDCi (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | T1DA, T1DB |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 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 | DOHC |
| 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 | 1343 kg (2960.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 557 kg (1227.97 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 (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 | Disc |
| 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 TDCi diesel engine, identified by engine codes T1DA or T1DB depending on specific calibration and market requirements. This engine belongs to Ford’s Duratorq family of common-rail direct injection diesels. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The common-rail direct injection system, supplied by Bosch, delivers fuel at extremely high pressure, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The six-speed manual transmission, a Getrag M66, was the standard gearbox for this trim, offering a good balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque output, providing adequate acceleration and cruising ability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TDCi with the manual transmission delivered a practical and economical driving experience. While not particularly sporty, it offered sufficient power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.4 seconds, and top speed was approximately 119.92 mph. The engine’s peak torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) was available from 1750-2500 rpm, providing good responsiveness in most driving conditions. Compared to the higher-output 1.6 TDCi variants or the gasoline engines, this version felt less eager to rev, but it compensated with superior fuel economy and lower running costs. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but the gear ratios were optimized for efficiency rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TDCi typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, automatic headlights and wipers, and a more advanced infotainment system. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus III Sedan utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front and rear brakes were both ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and stability, rather than sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 TDCi variant of the Focus III Sedan was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered rivals, particularly for drivers who covered long distances. Compared to the more powerful diesel versions, it was seen as a more affordable and economical option, albeit with slightly less performance. Fuel economy figures of around 52.3 US mpg combined were highly competitive. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common concern with modern diesel engines.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDCi engine, in various iterations, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The Focus III Sedan with this engine remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking an economical and practical vehicle. While newer models offer more advanced technology and features, the Focus III Sedan 1.6 TDCi continues to provide a solid and dependable driving experience. The engine’s relatively simple design and readily available parts contribute to its ongoing appeal and affordability.
