The Ford NRI is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2018 as part of Ford’s EcoBoost family. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) with 240 Nm of torque, offering responsive performance and improved fuel economy over previous four-cylinder units.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation Ford Focus (C519) and Puma (JX), the NRI was engineered for urban agility and motorway refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6d compliance across all markets from launch.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of port fuel injection, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin TSB-19-2312. This issue stems from the engine’s reliance on direct injection alone, which can allow oil vapours from the crankcase ventilation system to accumulate on valve stems. Ford recommends periodic induction cleaning for high-mileage vehicles operating primarily in stop-start conditions.
All production years (2018–present) meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford NRI is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2018–present). It combines direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk low-end response and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards from launch, it balances performance with stringent emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 16,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to maintain chain and turbo health. Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low SAPS formulation protecting the GPF. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating induction cleaning after 80,000 km in urban use. The absence of port injection means valve cleaning additives are ineffective; mechanical or walnut-blasting methods are recommended per TSB-19-2312.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) specification (Ford Owner’s Manual – Focus C519). Meets ACEA C5 and API SN standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all NRI engines from 2018 onward (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on 95 RON fuel (Ford PT-2023).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T18-442, T18-445, SIB 19-2312
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford NRI was used across Ford's C519 and JX platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Puma for higher ground clearance and unique exhaust routing in the Focus Active—and from 2021 the mild-hybrid (MHEV) variant added a belt-driven integrated starter-generator (BISG), creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Ford TIS T18-440). The 7th VIN digit for NRI-equipped vehicles is 'F' (Focus) or 'P' (Puma), and the 8th digit is 'R' for the 1.5L EcoBoost. Non-MHEV units lack the 48V belt-driven starter-generator on the front accessory drive. Critical differentiation from earlier 1.5L EcoBoost (Sigma-based): NRI has three cylinders, integrated exhaust manifold, and GPF. Service parts for MHEV and non-MHEV variants differ in ancillary components (Ford SIB 20-1045).
The NRI's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup due to direct-only injection, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Ford TSB-19-2312 notes increased service events after 70,000 km in city-driven vehicles, while UK DVSA data shows no significant emissions-related MOT failures due to robust GPF and EGR calibration. Short-trip driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate deposit formation, making induction maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD NRI.
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