The Ford Focus IV Hatchback 1.5 EcoBlue (120 hp) represents a significant iteration in Ford’s globally successful Focus line, produced from September 2018 to 2021. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the fourth generation (2018-2022) Focus lineup, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for everyday driving. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where compact hatchbacks are a dominant market segment, offering a diesel-powered alternative to gasoline engines. The 1.5 EcoBlue engine was part of Ford’s efforts to modernize its engine range, focusing on reduced emissions and improved fuel economy. This model is a five-door hatchback with seating for five passengers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus IV Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBlue (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.0-4.1 l/100 km (58.8 – 57.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4-3.6 l/100 km (69.2 – 65.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6-3.7 l/100 km (65.3 – 63.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 94-100 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | ZTDB |
| Engine displacement | 1500 cm3 (91.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1288 kg (2839.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 607 kg (1338.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 375 l (13.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1354 l (47.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4378-4387 mm (172.36 – 172.72 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1979 mm (77.91 in.) |
| Height | 1439-1452 mm (56.65 – 57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Front overhang | 909 mm (35.79 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 769 mm (30.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 112-135 mm (4.41 – 5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 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 and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R16; 205/60 R16; 215/50 R17; 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Focus variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine, designated with the engine code ZTDB. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBlue family, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a single turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. The valvetrain is a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) configuration, allowing for precise control of valve timing. The 1.5 EcoBlue engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, known for its relatively smooth operation and good low-end torque. The engine’s 16.4:1 compression ratio is relatively high for a diesel, contributing to its efficiency. The 120 hp version was typically paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although an eight-speed automatic was also available as an option in some markets.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp engine, when coupled with the six-speed manual transmission, provides adequate performance for typical daily driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.5 seconds, and top speed is approximately 122 mph. While not a particularly sporty configuration, the engine delivers a useful 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2250 rpm, providing good responsiveness for overtaking and merging onto highways. Compared to higher-output versions of the 1.5 EcoBlue (150 hp), this variant feels less eager to rev, but offers better fuel economy. The manual transmission’s gear ratios are well-spaced, allowing the driver to keep the engine within its optimal torque band. The automatic transmission, when equipped, offers smoother shifts but can feel slightly less responsive than the manual.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp variant typically sat in the mid-range of the Focus IV lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and several safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium or ST-Line, added features like alloy wheels, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus IV utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp variant typically featured ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. The braking system is assisted by ABS and ESP. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is generally geared towards comfort, but the Focus still offers a reasonably engaging driving experience. The weight distribution is fairly balanced, contributing to predictable handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Focus IV 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost gasoline engine, the 1.5 EcoBlue offered better fuel economy and more torque, but was generally more expensive to purchase. Compared to the higher-output 1.5 EcoBlue variants, this version provided a more affordable entry point into the Focus range, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Legacy
The 1.5 EcoBlue engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although, like all diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration. On the used car market, the Focus IV 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and fuel-efficient compact hatchback. The availability of spare parts is generally good, and the engine is relatively easy to service. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily used for short trips. Overall, this variant remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and economical everyday vehicle.
