The Ford Fiesta Active VIII (Mk8) 1.0 EcoBoost 85 hp model, produced from March 2018 to October 2019, represents an entry-level offering within the broader Mk8 Fiesta Active range. Positioned as a crossover-styled variant of the popular Fiesta hatchback, it aimed to blend the practicality of a small car with a slightly more rugged aesthetic and increased ride height. This particular configuration – the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission – was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability. It served as a gateway into the Active lineup, sitting below the more powerful EcoBoost 100 hp and 125 hp models, as well as the diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta Active VIII (Mk8) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 EcoBoost (85 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2018 |
| End of production | October, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 72.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 4000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1166 kg (2570.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1685 kg (3714.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 519 kg (1144.2 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 | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 65 kg (143.3 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, 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta Active is Ford’s 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine. This engine, part of Ford’s award-winning EcoBoost family, utilizes a combination of direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and variable valve timing to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency. The specific engine code for this 85 hp variant is often associated with variations of the M1DA/M1DD engine family. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The single scroll turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power without significantly compromising fuel economy. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, further enhancing its breathing and overall performance. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a good spread of gears for both city driving and highway cruising. The transmission’s ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque output and keep it within its optimal operating range.
Driving Characteristics
The 85 hp EcoBoost engine, while not exceptionally powerful, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.1 seconds, and top speed was limited to 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the engine did feel somewhat strained at higher speeds or when fully loaded. Compared to the 100 hp and 125 hp EcoBoost variants, this version offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but the gear ratios were optimized for efficiency rather than sporty driving. The Active’s slightly increased ride height and softer suspension setup, compared to the standard Fiesta, contributed to a more comfortable ride, but also resulted in slightly more body roll in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Fiesta Active 1.0 EcoBoost 85 hp typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, offered additional features like a larger touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a focus on durability and practicality. The dashboard layout was similar to other Mk8 Fiesta models, with a clean and modern design.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Active utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a twist-beam rear suspension. The Active models featured a slightly raised ride height compared to the standard Fiesta, providing increased ground clearance for navigating rougher terrain. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering was electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiesta Active 1.0 EcoBoost 85 hp was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable small car. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and decent level of standard equipment. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the higher-output EcoBoost variants, this version offered better fuel economy but less performance. The diesel models provided even better fuel economy but came with a higher purchase price and potential maintenance costs. In terms of reliability, the 1.0 EcoBoost engine has generally proven to be a robust unit, although some owners have reported issues with the timing belt system.
Legacy
The Ford Fiesta Active 1.0 EcoBoost 85 hp remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The 1.0 EcoBoost engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. The Mk8 Fiesta Active, in general, is considered a well-rounded small car that offers a good balance of comfort, practicality, and affordability. While not the most exciting car to drive, it provides a comfortable and efficient transportation solution for everyday use. Its continued presence on the used car market reflects its enduring appeal to buyers seeking a reliable and economical small car.
