The Ford Fiesta Mk8, launched in 2017, represented a significant evolution for Ford’s long-running supermini. The 3-door 1.0 EcoBoost 125 PS Automatic variant, produced from May 2020 to March 2021, occupied a middle ground within the Mk8 range, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, affordability, and convenience. Positioned above the base models and below the higher-powered ST trims, it aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and economical city car with the ease of an automatic transmission. This model is part of the eighth generation of the Fiesta, internally designated as the B299 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta VIII (Mk8) 3 door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 EcoBoost (125 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 2020 |
| End of production | March, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 129 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.8-6.2 l/100 km (40.6 – 37.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 45.6 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 3.9-4.3 l/100 km (60.3 – 54.7 US mpg, 72.4 – 65.7 UK mpg, 25.6 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.6-5 l/100 km (51.1 – 47 US mpg, 61.4 – 56.5 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 104-113 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 199 km/h (123.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 148.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 125.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 1400 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M1JP |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| 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 | 1145 kg (2524.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 45 kg (99.21 lbs.) |
| Length | 4040 mm (159.06 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Height | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2493 mm (98.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 839 mm (33.03 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 708 mm (27.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 133 mm (5.24 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R 15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6 J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Fiesta Mk8 1.0 EcoBoost 125 PS Automatic is a front-wheel-drive hatchback that was part of the eighth generation of the Fiesta, produced from 2017-2023. The 3-door version, specifically with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine producing 125 horsepower paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was available for a limited time between May 2020 and March 2021. It represented a key offering in the European market, where smaller, fuel-efficient cars are highly valued. The Mk8 Fiesta aimed to modernize the Fiesta formula with improved technology, safety features, and a more refined driving experience. This particular variant aimed to provide a convenient and economical option for urban commuters and those seeking a stylish and practical supermini.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Fiesta variant lies the Ford 1.0 EcoBoost engine, specifically the M1JP variant. This is a three-cylinder, 1.0-liter (999cc) turbocharged gasoline engine. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine benefits from a turbocharger and intercooler, which help to boost power and efficiency. The 125 PS (horsepower) output is achieved at 6000 rpm, while peak torque of 170 Nm (125.39 lb-ft) is delivered at 1400 rpm. This engine is known for its responsiveness and surprisingly punchy performance for its size. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes and contributing to the car’s ease of driving. The transmission is a conventional torque-converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 EcoBoost 125 PS Automatic Fiesta offers a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience. While not as quick as the higher-powered ST models or even the manual versions of the 1.0 EcoBoost, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and the top speed is around 123.65 mph. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and timely gear changes. However, it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can run at lower revs during cruising. Compared to the manual version, the automatic sacrifices some driver engagement but gains in convenience, particularly in congested urban environments. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 EcoBoost 125 PS Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic infotainment 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, added features like a larger touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic headlights and wipers, cruise control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Mk8 utilizes an independent front suspension with a McPherson strut setup and a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is an independent multi-link system, also with a transverse stabilizer bar. This suspension setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system consists of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility and fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiesta Mk8, in general, received positive reviews from automotive critics. The 1.0 EcoBoost engine was praised for its efficiency and surprisingly strong performance. However, the automatic transmission was sometimes criticized for being slightly sluggish. Compared to other trims in the Fiesta lineup, the 1.0 EcoBoost Automatic offered a good compromise between performance, fuel economy, and price. The 1.0 EcoBoost 100 PS manual version was more affordable but offered less power. The higher-powered 1.0 EcoBoost 140 PS and ST models provided more exhilarating performance but came at a higher cost and with increased fuel consumption. The Fiesta competed with rivals such as the Volkswagen Polo, Opel Corsa, and Renault Clio.
Legacy
The 1.0 EcoBoost engine has proven 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 ensuring long-term reliability. The Fiesta Mk8 1.0 EcoBoost Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a practical and economical option for buyers seeking a small, stylish hatchback. Its fuel efficiency, combined with the convenience of an automatic transmission, makes it a compelling option for urban commuters. The Fiesta’s reputation for reliability and affordability continues to make it a desirable used car purchase.
