The Ford Focus III Wagon (facelift, 2014) 1.5 TDCi 120 horsepower variant, equipped with the Start/Stop system, represents a significant offering in the European compact estate market. Introduced in 2014 as part of the mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation Focus, this model aimed to balance fuel efficiency with practicality for family buyers. It sat within the broader Focus Mk3 range, which utilized the global C-platform (Ford’s internal designation). Production continued through 2018, with this specific engine and trim level being a popular choice for those prioritizing economy and lower running costs. This version was primarily sold in Europe, where the wagon body style held considerable appeal.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus III Wagon (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 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 | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 76.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 172.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, XWDD |
| 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 | 1564 kg (3448.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 336 kg (740.75 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | 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 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine, specifically utilizing engine codes XWDA, XWDB, XWDC, or XWDD depending on the specific market and emissions regulations. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and employing a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power and efficiency. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for modern diesel engines, contributing to 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. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque offered by this engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 10.7 seconds. While not a particularly sporty configuration, the engine’s torque peak, available from 1750-2500 rpm, provided good responsiveness for overtaking and merging onto highways. Compared to the higher-output 1.5 TDCi variants or the petrol engines, this version prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, with a relatively long final drive to maximize mileage. The driving experience was generally comfortable, with the Focus’s well-regarded chassis providing a stable and predictable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 S&S typically represented a mid-range trim level within the Focus Wagon lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Safety features included multiple airbags and stability control. Optional extras often included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a rear parking camera.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus Mk3 Wagon utilized an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front and rear brakes were both disc brakes, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was generally geared towards comfort, but the Focus still offered a reasonably engaging driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi 120 S&S variant was well-received by critics and consumers alike, particularly in Europe. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable ride. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, it offered a lower purchase price and lower running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the performance could feel strained when the vehicle was fully loaded or when climbing steep hills. Against petrol-powered Focus models, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. Reliability was generally good, although, like all modern 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 powerplant when properly maintained. In the used car market, the Focus III Wagon 1.5 TDCi 120 S&S remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and economical estate car. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, filter replacements, and periodic DPF regeneration. While the engine is generally robust, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of issues with the turbocharger or fuel injectors as the vehicle ages. Overall, this variant represents a sensible and practical option for those needing a versatile and fuel-efficient family vehicle.
