The Ford Focus IV Wagon 1.5 EcoBoost Automatic, produced from September 2018 to 2021, represents a significant offering within the fourth generation of Ford’s globally successful Focus compact. This variant, equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower, and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable driving experience for families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle. It occupied a mid-range position within the Focus IV Wagon lineup, slotting between the lower-powered EcoBoost engines and the more performance-oriented trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Focus |
| Generation | Focus IV Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBoost (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6-7.8 l/100 km (30.9 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.0-5.2 l/100 km (47 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9-6.2 l/100 km (39.9 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 134-138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1600 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YZDA |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.05 l (5.34 US qt | 4.44 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 608 l (21.47 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1653 l (58.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4667-4668 mm (183.74 – 183.78 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 | 1459-1469 mm (57.44 – 57.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1566 mm (61.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 909 mm (35.79 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1059 mm (41.69 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 115-134 mm (4.53 – 5.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic 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 EcoBoost engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family of turbocharged, direct-injection engines. Specifically, the YZDA engine code designates this particular iteration. This engine features a three-cylinder configuration, a design choice aimed at reducing weight and internal friction for improved fuel economy. Direct fuel injection delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, enhancing efficiency and power output. The engine utilizes a single scroll turbocharger with an integrated intercooler to boost performance. The valvetrain employs a Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, provides smooth and efficient gear changes, contributing to the overall driving experience. This transmission is known for its responsiveness and ability to keep the engine within its optimal power band.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 EcoBoost Automatic Focus Wagon delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of the higher-powered Focus variants, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.6 seconds is respectable for a family wagon. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and preventing the engine from feeling strained during acceleration. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, particularly at lower engine speeds, making overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in urban traffic. However, it may result in a slight decrease in fuel economy due to the transmission’s inherent losses. The gear ratios are optimized for both fuel efficiency and responsiveness, providing a good balance between the two.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBoost Automatic typically came equipped with a solid array of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like heated seats, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Dashboard configurations were generally consistent across the range, with a focus on user-friendliness and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Focus IV Wagon utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to balance ride comfort with body control. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The electric power steering provides a light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 EcoBoost Automatic Focus Wagon was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior space. However, some reviewers noted that the three-cylinder engine could feel a bit rough at times, and the automatic transmission wasn’t as engaging as the manual option. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost variant, the 1.5 offered a noticeable increase in power and refinement. Against the 1.5 EcoBoost manual, the automatic traded some fuel economy for added convenience. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the powertrain.
Legacy
The Ford Focus IV Wagon 1.5 EcoBoost Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and reasonable running costs makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle. The 1.5 EcoBoost engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Regular oil changes and adherence to Ford’s recommended service intervals are crucial for ensuring the longevity of this powertrain. The eight-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. Overall, this variant of the Focus IV Wagon represents a well-rounded and dependable vehicle that continues to offer good value for money.
