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 95 horsepower variant occupied an important position as an entry-level diesel offering, particularly in European markets. Production of this specific configuration began in January 2022 and continued through the model year, catering to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs. This model is a five-door hatchback built on the C2 platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus IV Hatchback (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBlue (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4-4.8 l/100 km (58.8 – 49 US mpg, 70.6 – 58.9 UK mpg, 25 – 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 106-126 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.8 kg/Hp, 72.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750-2000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z2DA |
| 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4382 mm (172.52 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 | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 913 mm (35.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 769 mm (30.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (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 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Focus variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine, specifically the Z2DA engine code. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBlue family, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, incorporating direct fuel injection operating at extremely high pressures (up to 2,500 bar) for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to enhance low-end torque and responsiveness. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further contributes to efficient gas exchange. The 95 horsepower output is achieved at 4,000 rpm, while the peak torque of 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) is available between 1,750 and 2,000 rpm. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness in this segment. While an automatic transmission was available on other Focus IV models, it was not offered with this specific 1.5 EcoBlue 95 hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 EcoBlue 95 hp engine, coupled with the manual transmission, delivers a driving experience focused on fuel economy and practicality rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 12 seconds, which is typical for a diesel engine of this size and output. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it suitable for everyday driving, providing adequate pulling power for overtaking and navigating urban environments. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque band. Compared to higher-output versions of the 1.5 EcoBlue or the petrol-powered Focus models, this variant feels less responsive and requires more gear changes to maintain speed, especially when fully loaded or on inclines. However, the trade-off is significantly improved fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBlue 95 hp variant typically occupied the entry-level position within the Focus IV facelift range. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, power windows, and central locking. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium or ST-Line, offered additional features like alloy wheels, upgraded infotainment systems with larger touchscreens, climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras for the 95 hp model included a rear-view camera, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus IV utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The 1.5 EcoBlue 95 hp variant typically featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control). The suspension setup is tuned to prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency, rather than sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are present on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 EcoBlue 95 hp Focus was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was historically more affordable. Compared to the more powerful 1.5 EcoBlue variants, this model offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. Against petrol-powered Focus models, it provided superior fuel economy but a less refined driving experience. Reliability reports suggest that the EcoBlue engine is generally robust, but like all modern diesels, it can be susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys periodically.
Legacy
The Ford Focus IV 1.5 EcoBlue 95 hp remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable compact hatchback. The EcoBlue engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are essential. The availability of spare parts is good, and the Focus IV’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain. As a practical and economical option, this variant continues to offer good value for money in the used car market.
