Output of an award-winning economy engine is to be dramatically increased as part of preparations to make it a key feature of the next-generation Ford Mondeo.

Surging demand for the one-litre EcoBoost motor in Focus and Fiesta models has prompted executives to give the go-ahead to doubling production at the Cologne engine plant in August.

But the move is also being made to ensure that sufficient numbers of the three-cylinder petrol unit are available when the new Mondeo is introduced toward the end of next year.

“Despite the delay over its successor, demand for the current Mondeo continues to be strong and the conquests we’ve been making recently in the fleet sector make it clear that there’s plenty of life left in this model, particularly in estate form.

“Looking ahead, I think the way the three-cylinder engine will equate with a D-sector platform will be an interesting challenge. However, it has proved to be more than capable in the seven-seat C-Max Grand and has been well received,” said Ford of Britain sales director Andy Barratt.

Asked if he felt the 125PS power output of the engine would be sufficient for the Mondeo, he told Fleet News: “It is logical for this unit to go into a bigger car. It’s more about torque and the way it is delivered than merely output – responsiveness is very good and there have been no issues in the company about this.

“So far, customer reaction to the engine has been exceptionally good, as has in-service satisfaction. People are re-appraising what kind of powertrain they want  - traditionally it would be diesel, but this unit offers good economy, depending on the way it is driven, and doesn’t come with a significant upfront cost.“

“Our experience shows it is moving the balance toward petrol on Focus and there’s no reason why this should not also prove to be the case with the Mondeo.”

Author: Maurice Glover

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