Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta Active VIII (Mk8) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2018 |
| End of production | May, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 112 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.3 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 | XWJA, XWJB, XWJC |
| 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 | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt, 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1204 kg (2654.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 506 kg (1115.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 311 l (10.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1093 l (38.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal, 8.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4068 mm (160.16 in.) |
| Width | 1756 mm (69.13 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1783 mm (70.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2493 mm (98.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1513 mm (59.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 857 mm (33.74 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 718 mm (28.27 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130-152 mm (5.12 – 5.98 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.3 m (33.79 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 | 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Ford Fiesta Active VIII (Mk8) 1.5 TDCi 120 hp represents a specific variant within the eighth generation of Ford’s globally successful Fiesta model. Introduced in March 2018 and remaining in production until May 2019, this version combined the practicality of a supermini hatchback with the slightly raised ride height and rugged styling cues of a crossover. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Active sub-model, it aimed to appeal to buyers seeking improved fuel efficiency and a more versatile vehicle than the standard Fiesta, while still providing a reasonable level of performance. The Mk8 Fiesta, built on the B720 platform, represented a significant departure from its predecessors, featuring a more sophisticated chassis and a wider range of technology.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Fiesta Active 1.5 TDCi 120 hp was powered by Ford’s 1.5-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, specifically the XWJA, XWJB, or XWJC variants depending on the specific market and emissions regulations. This engine featured a turbocharger with intercooling, and a common-rail direct fuel injection system. The engine produced 120 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and low-end torque, making it suitable for everyday driving. The engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 120 hp engine provided a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.9 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 118 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine offered sufficient power for overtaking and highway cruising. The six-speed manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection and helped to keep the engine in its optimal torque band. Compared to the higher-output 1.0 EcoBoost petrol variants, the diesel offered more low-end grunt and superior fuel economy, but lacked the same level of responsiveness. The Active’s slightly raised suspension provided a more comfortable ride than the standard Fiesta, but also resulted in a bit more body roll in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fiesta Active 1.5 TDCi 120 hp typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. The Active trim level also included unique exterior styling elements, such as plastic cladding around the wheel arches and sills, and roof rails. Optional extras included a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a dark color scheme.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Active featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a twist-beam rear suspension. The Active variant had a slightly raised ride height compared to the standard Fiesta, providing increased ground clearance. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The car was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiesta Active 1.5 TDCi 120 hp 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 be a bit noisy and that the performance was not as exciting as some of the petrol-powered alternatives. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost models, the diesel offered better fuel economy but less outright performance. The 1.5 TDCi was also seen as a more sensible choice than the higher-powered ST variants, appealing to buyers who prioritized practicality and running costs over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine proved to be relatively reliable, although, like all diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. In the used car market, the Fiesta Active 1.5 TDCi 120 hp represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical supermini. Its combination of affordability, economy, and comfort has ensured its continued popularity among used car buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines, such as DPF regeneration and injector cleaning.
