The Ford Focus IV, introduced in 2018, represented a significant evolution for Ford’s globally popular compact car. The facelifted version, launched in 2022, brought styling updates and revised engine options. Among these, the 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp variant occupied a key position in the lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. This model, available as a five-door hatchback, was primarily aimed at European markets where diesel engines remained popular due to their fuel economy and suitability for long-distance driving. The 2022 facelift aimed to modernize the Focus and enhance its appeal in a competitive segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus IV Hatchback (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBlue (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 4.9-5.3 l/100 km (48 – 44.4 US mpg, 57.6 – 53.3 UK mpg, 20.4 – 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4.1-4.7 l/100 km (57.4 – 50 US mpg, 68.9 – 60.1 UK mpg, 24.4 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 3.7-4.3 l/100 km (63.6 – 54.7 US mpg, 76.3 – 65.7 UK mpg, 27 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 4.5-5.1 l/100 km (52.3 – 46.1 US mpg, 62.8 – 55.4 UK mpg, 22.2 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.2-4.8 l/100 km (56 – 49 US mpg, 67.3 – 58.9 UK mpg, 23.8 – 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 110-126 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1309 kg (2885.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 601 kg (1324.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 392 l (13.84 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 | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4382-4392 mm (172.52 – 172.91 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 | 1459-1471 mm (57.44 – 57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 913 mm (35.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 769-779 mm (30.28 – 30.67 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 123-135 mm (4.84 – 5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 282×27 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 282×27 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Focus IV facelift, specifically the 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp model, was introduced in January 2022 as part of a mid-cycle refresh for the fourth-generation Focus. Built on the C2 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with other Ford and PSA vehicles), this variant aimed to provide a fuel-efficient and practical option for buyers in Europe. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it slotted between the lower-powered EcoBlue variants and the more performance-oriented gasoline engines. The facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refinements to the existing powertrain options, including this 1.5-liter diesel.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Focus variant is the Ford 1.5 EcoBlue ZTDB diesel engine. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a common-rail direct fuel injection system. The EcoBlue series of engines were designed to meet stringent Euro 6 emissions standards, incorporating technologies like a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR). The 120 hp output is achieved at 4000 rpm, while peak torque of 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) is available between 1750 and 2250 rpm. This broad torque curve provides good drivability in everyday situations. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. The engine’s valvetrain utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved combustion.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp Focus offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the engine provides adequate power for most driving scenarios. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 9.8 seconds. The strength of this engine lies in its mid-range torque, making overtaking and merging onto highways relatively effortless. Compared to the higher-output gasoline engines, the diesel offers superior fuel economy, but lacks the same level of responsiveness. The manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, with gear ratios optimized for both fuel efficiency and usable power. The gear ratios are relatively long, prioritizing economy at cruising speeds. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost gasoline engine, the diesel feels more relaxed on the highway, while the gasoline engine offers quicker acceleration in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp variant typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium and ST-Line, added features like a larger touchscreen display, navigation, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and a more sporty exterior styling package. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus IV utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 1.5 EcoBlue models typically featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension tuning was generally geared towards comfort, but the Focus still offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp Focus was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost gasoline engine, the diesel offered better fuel economy but less outright performance. The 1.5 EcoBlue also provided a quieter and more refined driving experience than some of its competitors in the diesel segment. Fuel economy figures of 4.2-4.8 l/100 km (56-49 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
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 DPF servicing. The Focus IV, including the 1.5 EcoBlue variant, has maintained a good reputation for build quality and reliability in the used car market. These models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical compact car. The availability of spare parts and qualified mechanics ensures that these vehicles can be maintained for many years to come. The 2022 facelifted models, with their updated styling and technology, are particularly desirable on the used market.
