Is the new Ford Focus three-cylinder engine suitable for long distance driving?

I have read all the very high praise lavished on the new Ford three cylinder engine. In your opinion would the new Focus 1.0 125ps be a suitable car for me to travel 550 miles each week, mainly on motorways? I value comfort and engine refinement. I know the engine is too new for it to have any long-term test. Will it be an engine that will comfortably do 100,000 to 125,000 mainly trouble-free miles?

Asked on 18 August 2012 by SS, Pinner,

Answered by Honest John

Don't expect to average more than 50mpg. I've got no idea how long the engine will last, but the torque allows it to pull quite high gears so it should not be stressed at 70mph. It's essential to idle the turbo for 30-90 seconds before switching off because they get very hot. There's a test here: honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/ford/focus-10-ecoboost//

Also Renault's 1.2TCe 115 is smoother, but less gutsy. Tested here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/renault/megane-201.../ The other option is an Auris HSD. That will do over 60mpg on the motorway - I've done it. Test here: honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/toyota/toyota-auris-hybrid//

Tags: high mileage petrol engines reliability comfort turbo engines

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