The Ford Fiesta Mk8, launched in July 2017, represented a significant evolution for Ford’s long-running supermini. The 3-door 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Start-Stop variant occupied a key position in the lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, affordability, and a degree of performance. Produced through May 2020, this version was aimed at buyers seeking a modern, well-equipped hatchback with lower running costs. It was built on the global B-platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with other Ford models like the Ka+. This particular trim level served as a stepping stone within the Fiesta range, positioned above the base models but below the more powerful EcoBoost variants and the diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta VIII (Mk8) 3 door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 EcoBoost (100 Hp) Start-Stop |
| Start of production | July, 2017 |
| End of production | May, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 97 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159 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, Ti-VCT |
| 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 | 1069-1144 kg (2356.74 – 2522.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1630-1645 kg (3593.53 – 3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 501-561 kg (1104.52 – 1236.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 292 l (10.31 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 | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 65 kg (143.3 lbs.) |
| Length | 4040-4065 mm (159.06 – 160.04 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1783 mm (70.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Height | 1466-1476 mm (57.72 – 58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2493 mm (98.15 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| 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 with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15; 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17; 205/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta variant is the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, specifically the SFJE/SFJF/SFJH/SFJJ/SFJK/SFJN/SFJP engine codes. This is a three-cylinder, inline petrol engine featuring direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), allowing for optimized valve timing for improved performance and efficiency. The 10:1 compression ratio contributes to its responsiveness. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively long gearing to maximize fuel economy. The Start-Stop system, a key feature, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 100 hp EcoBoost engine, while not exceptionally powerful, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10 seconds, and top speed was approximately 114 mph. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the engine does require some downshifting for quicker overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the 1.5-liter diesel variants, the 1.0 EcoBoost offered a more refined and responsive driving experience, albeit with slightly lower torque. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning the engine could feel strained at higher speeds or when fully loaded. The Fiesta’s light weight helped to mitigate the engine’s modest power output, making it feel nimble and engaging in city driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Start-Stop typically came equipped with features like air conditioning, power front windows, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, added features like a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a rear parking sensor, cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Mk8 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent Elastic Beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure for this trim level. The steering was electric power-assisted, offering light and precise control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp variant was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, surprisingly punchy engine, and agile handling. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered on motorways or when carrying a full load. Compared to the more powerful 1.0 EcoBoost 125 hp version, this trim offered a more affordable entry point into the Fiesta range, but at the expense of performance. The diesel variants offered superior fuel economy, but were generally more expensive to purchase and maintain.
Legacy
The 1.0 EcoBoost engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain, although some early models experienced issues with timing belt failures. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial for long-term reliability. On the used car market, the 3-door 1.0 EcoBoost 100 hp Fiesta Mk8 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped supermini. Its combination of practicality, economy, and driving enjoyment ensures its continued appeal.
