With the local diesel sector showing great growth over the past few years, Ford Motor Company South Africa has introduced a turbodiesel variant to its Focus lineup – the 1,8TDCi.
With the local diesel sector showing great growth over the past few years, Ford Motor Company South Africa has introduced a turbodiesel variant to its Focus lineup – the 1,8TDCi.
In what has been described as “a natural move for the Focus”, two models (a four- and a five-door) of the Focus 1,8TDCi have been launched. Available only in Trend specification, both models are priced at R193 120.
Ford Marketing Manager Neale Hill said: “Clearly, diesels are becoming an increasingly important segment of the South African motor industry. Turbodiesel is no longer a niche model but a vital part of the model line-up.
The 1,8-litre DuraTorq TDCi engine used in the Focus is based on the 1,8-litre Endura-DI turbocharged intercooled diesel engine. However, the power output has been increased to 85 kW and the torque to 250 N.m through the addition of a variable turbocharger and common rail fuel injection system.
The engine is controlled by the EEC V engine management system, with an integral strategy for the variable turbocharger and the common rail fuel injection system. In addition, an injector driver module (IDM) has been introduced to control the common rail fuel injection system.
Also, to increase the Focus’ potency, it also features a variable vane turbocharger, intercooler, “overboost” facility and noise reduction technology.
The “overboost” facility on the 1.8TDCi engine allows an additional 30 N.m of torque (therefore max torque of 280 Nm) for short periods during accelerating and overtaking and is activated when the accelerator pedal is depressed.
Safety features include driver and passenger dual stage airbags, ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and front fog lights.
Standard features on the Focus TDCI include power steering, alloy wheels, sports suspension, ABS and a stainless steel exhaust.
Added features include air conditioning, trip computer, radio/CD and all-round electric windows.
In line with the Ford petrol engines, the turbodiesel engine needs to be serviced every 15 000 km. The two turbodiesel Focus derivatives also feature the FordProtect five-year/60 000km maintenance plan and three-year unlimited roadside assistance package.