The Ford Fiesta Active VIII (Mk8) 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Automatic, produced from March 2018 to 2021, represents a specific configuration within the eighth generation of Ford’s globally successful Fiesta model. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Active sub-model – Ford’s attempt to blend hatchback practicality with crossover styling – this variant aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, affordability, and ease of use through its automatic transmission. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles are highly sought after, and to a lesser extent in other markets where the Fiesta was sold. This version occupied a space between the base-level Fiesta models and the more performance-oriented ST trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta Active VIII (Mk8) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 EcoBoost (100 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 140.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 4500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SFJE, SFJF, SFJH, SFJJ, SFJK, SFJN, SFJP |
| Engine displacement | 998 cm3 (60.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71.9 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1209 kg (2665.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 481 kg (1060.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 311 l (10.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1093 l (38.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 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 | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 45 kg (99.21 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) | 0.33 |
| 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, 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 | 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta Active is Ford’s 1.0 EcoBoost engine, specifically in its 100 horsepower guise. This engine, part of the award-winning EcoBoost family, is a three-cylinder, 1.0-liter (998 cc) turbocharged gasoline engine. Engine codes for this output level include SFJE, SFJF, SFJH, SFJJ, SFJK, SFJN, and SFJP, variations often relating to specific emissions calibrations or market requirements. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves combustion efficiency and power output. It also features a twin-independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) system, allowing for optimized valve control across the engine’s operating range. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power despite the small displacement. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, a crucial element defining this specific variant. This transmission, while offering convenience, is not known for particularly rapid shifts compared to the manual options.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Automatic Fiesta Active delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.2 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 12.8 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth in normal driving conditions, can feel somewhat hesitant during quick acceleration or overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance. Compared to the 1.0 EcoBoost 125 hp or 140 hp versions, this variant feels noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The manual transmission versions of the 100 hp engine offer a more engaging driving experience and slightly improved fuel economy. However, the automatic provides a more relaxed driving experience, especially in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fiesta Active trim level, even in its 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Automatic configuration, offered a reasonable level of standard equipment. This typically included alloy wheels, air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and Ford’s SYNC 3 system. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Optional extras included a rear-view camera, parking sensors, heated seats, and a premium sound system. The Active trim also featured unique exterior styling elements, such as rugged body cladding and raised ride height, giving it a more crossover-like appearance.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Active VIII utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with MacPherson strut front suspension and a twist-beam rear axle. The Active trim featured a slightly raised ride height compared to standard Fiesta models, contributing to its crossover aesthetic and providing a more comfortable ride on uneven surfaces. Braking consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort and everyday usability, rather than sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear, though their thickness was relatively modest compared to higher-performance Fiesta variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Automatic Fiesta Active received generally positive reviews, particularly for its fuel efficiency and affordability. Critics praised the engine’s willingness to rev and its surprisingly punchy performance for its size. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its sluggishness and lack of responsiveness. Compared to the 1.5-liter diesel variants, the 1.0 EcoBoost offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, but with slightly lower fuel economy. Against the more powerful EcoBoost models, it represented a more budget-friendly option, sacrificing some performance for lower running costs.
Legacy
The 1.0 EcoBoost engine has proven to be a remarkably reliable powertrain, and the automatic transmission, while not without its quirks, has generally held up well over time. Used examples of the Fiesta Active VIII 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Automatic are readily available on the used car market, typically priced competitively. Common issues reported include occasional turbocharger problems and potential issues with the timing chain, though these are not widespread. Overall, this variant represents a sensible and economical choice for buyers seeking a small, practical, and fuel-efficient hatchback with the added appeal of crossover styling.
