The Ford Fiesta Mk8, produced from 2017 to 2023, represented a significant evolution for Ford’s long-running supermini. The 5-door 1.0 EcoBoost 125 hp Automatic variant, available from May 2020 to March 2021, occupied a middle ground within the Mk8 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, affordability, and convenience. Positioned above the base models and below the more powerful ST trims, this version aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and economical daily driver with the ease of an automatic transmission. It was a key offering in the European market, where small, fuel-efficient hatchbacks are highly popular, and also saw limited sales in other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta VIII (Mk8) 5 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 | 5 |
| 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 | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 146.4 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 | 1161 kg (2559.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 529 kg (1166.25 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 | 615 kg (1355.84 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta variant is the 1.0 EcoBoost engine, a three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. Specifically, this model utilizes the M1JP engine code. This engine family is renowned for its compact size and efficiency, achieved through technologies like direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the cylinders, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, forces more air into the engine, boosting power output despite the small displacement. The engine produces 125 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1400 rpm. This torque delivery contributes to good low-end responsiveness. Paired with the engine is a 7-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission is a torque converter type, offering a balance between efficiency and driving comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 EcoBoost 125 hp Automatic Fiesta delivers a surprisingly capable driving experience. While not as quick as the higher-powered ST models, it offers sufficient acceleration for everyday driving, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 9.4 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel slightly strained when pushed hard. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness but gains in ease of use, particularly in urban environments. The relatively light weight of the Fiesta (1161 kg / 2559.57 lbs) helps to mitigate the power deficit.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 EcoBoost 125 hp Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features including ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, added features like automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a rear parking sensor, and upgraded interior materials. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for partial leather. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Mk8 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned to be relatively soft, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels in many configurations, although some higher trims featured rear discs. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel. A transverse stabilizer bar is fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.0 EcoBoost Automatic Fiesta was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and user-friendly automatic transmission. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.5-liter EcoBoost variant, the 1.0-liter offered better fuel economy but less performance. Against diesel alternatives, like the 1.5 TDCi, the 1.0 EcoBoost offered a more refined driving experience but potentially higher running costs depending on mileage. Fuel economy figures averaged around 41.3 US mpg (combined WLTP), making it an attractive option for cost-conscious buyers.
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 long-term reliability. In the used car market, the 1.0 EcoBoost Automatic Fiesta represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and economical mode of transportation. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving make it a popular choice for urban commuters and first-time car buyers. The Mk8 Fiesta, in general, is considered a well-rounded and modern supermini, and this particular variant continues to hold its appeal in the used car market.
