The Ford NRB is a 1,997 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2021. It features direct injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), and a lightweight aluminium block with forged steel crankshaft. In standard form it delivers 177 kW (240 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, with high-output versions reaching 213 kW (290 PS) for performance applications.
Fitted to models such as the Focus RS, Mustang EcoBoost, and Edge ST, the NRB was engineered for drivers seeking high performance with refined drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced direct injection and a high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation system, allowing most units to meet Euro 6 standards with later models achieving Euro 6d compliance.
One documented concern is cylinder head gasket failures, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin 20-2187. This issue stems from increased cylinder pressures in performance applications, leading to gasket degradation and potential coolant intrusion. Ford addressed this in later production runs with multi-layer steel gaskets and improved head bolt torque specifications.
Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6 standards; 2019–2021 models may have Euro 6d compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Ford NRB is a 1,997 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engineered for performance models (2015-2021). It combines direct fuel injection with twin independent variable camshaft timing to deliver exceptional power and torque across the rev range. Designed to meet Euro 6/6d standards, it balances high performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-scroll turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 177–213 kW (240–290 PS) | |
| Torque | 340–400 Nm @ 2,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 250 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 (pre-2019); Euro 6d depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with auxiliary oil cooler | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll BorgWarner K04 turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides exceptional power delivery but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo carbon buildup. Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability protecting the direct injection system. Aggressive driving during warm-up should be minimized to reduce thermal stress. The direct injection system demands minimum 98 RON unleaded fuel to prevent knocking and maintain optimal performance. Post-2019 models feature reinforced cylinder head gaskets; pre-2019 units should have cooling system inspected per Ford TSB 20-2187. High-performance applications require additional cooling system maintenance to prevent overheating during track use.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 20 2187). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements for high-performance applications.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to pre-2019 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456). Some 2019-2021 models meet Euro 6d depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 213 kW output requires 98 RON fuel quality (Ford TIS Doc. F26017).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F24682, F25144, F25633, SIB 20 2187
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford NRB was used across Ford's C2-platform/CD4-platform platforms with transverse mounting and exclusive to Ford performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Focus RS and modified oil cooling in the Mustang EcoBoost-and from 2019 the facelifted Edge ST models adopted the NRB-R variant with improved gasket designs, creating interchange limits. No partnerships were established for this engine family. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS F24892). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('R' for NRB series). Pre-2019 models have silver valve covers with red RS lettering; post-2019 units use black valve covers with blue ST accent stripes. Critical differentiation from NRB-R: Original NRB has Bosch MG1 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port under hood, while NRB-R uses Delphi MT90 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder head gaskets for engines before 06/2019 are incompatible with later units due to revised torque specifications (Ford SIB 20 2187).
The NRB's primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket failures, with elevated incidence in high-performance applications. Internal Ford data from 2020 reported a notable share of pre-2019 engines requiring gasket replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to carbon-fouled intake systems in performance-driven vehicles. Track use and aggressive driving amplify thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2019-2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NRB.
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