Are EcoBoost engines reliable?
My wife and I own a 2020 Focus and 2022 Kuga both with the 1.5 Ecoblue diesel engine. Both are lovely cars with enough power, though the engine seems better suited to the Focus. We are looking at changing one of the cars to a new Kuga 1.5 Ecoboost (FHEV and PHEV costs are prohibitive) or a Focus 1.0 MHEV. My concern is that the petrol engine will feel a bit gutless and be far less economical, particularly in the Kuga. I am also wary of the issues with these engines and wet belts. Could you offer any advice regarding the proposed engine choices and any reassurance that the earlier issues with engine failure have been resolved through updates to the engines?
Asked on 31 January 2025 by Andrew Swift
Answered by
David Ross
The 1.0-litre EcoBoost is more than capable of powering the Focus, especially as it is available in 125PS and 155PS forms, while the Kuga has 150PS from its 1.5-litre EcoBoost unit. Although they do not offer as much torque as the diesel version you should find them more than capable, but we would recommend a test drive so you can see for yourself. The 2019-on 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine uses a timing chain in place of the previous wet timing belt arrangement which appears to have cured these issues, although we would always recommend having the vehicle serviced in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
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