The Ford QWFA is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2025. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin — scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 260 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive performance in compact SUVs and hatchbacks.
Fitted to models such as the Puma ST — Line, Focus ST — Line, and Kuga Titanium, the QWFA was designed to offer sporty acceleration wh…
All production years (2021–2025) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8923).
The Ford QWFA is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and crossover applications (2021–2025). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk low‑end torque and agile throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d from launch, it balances performance with regulatory compliance and urban drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 260 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | Garrett twin‑scroll (MGT2259VZ) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
Dry weight | 111 kg |
The Ford QWFA was used across Ford's B‑Car and C‑Car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—enhanced cooling in the Kuga and stiffer engine mounts in the Puma ST-Line—and from 2023 the camshaft revision created minor interchange limits for HPFP-related components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The QWFA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe wear on the intake camshaft in early builds, with elevated incidence in performance-oriented usage or hot climates. Ford internal field data (2024) indicated a measurable uptick in camshaft replacements before 50,000 km in Puma ST-Line models used for aggressive driving, while UK DVSA data shows low emissions-related failures due to robust GPF/EGR design. Sustained high-load operation without adequate warm-up increases cam stress, making correct oil spec and driving habits critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2021–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The QWFA is generally robust when maintained properly. Early engines (2021–early 2023) had HPFP cam lobe wear concerns under hard use, but revised camshafts and strict oil specs improved durability. Using Ford-specified 0W-20 oil and avoiding excessive short trips ensures longevity.
Top issues include HPFP cam lobe wear (early models), GPF overloading from short trips, intake valve carbon buildup due to direct injection only, and occasional turbo actuator calibration drift. All are documented in Ford service bulletins with updated parts available.
The QWFA powers the Puma ST-Line (2021–2025), Focus ST-Line (2021–2025), and Kuga Titanium (2022–2025) with 170 PS output. It’s exclusive to Ford and not shared with other manufacturers.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +25–30 kW (to ~150–155 kW / 204–210 PS) on stock hardware using 98 RON fuel. The engine lacks cylinder deactivation, simplifying tuning. However, HPFP and camshaft durability under sustained high load should be monitored—upgraded fuel systems and cam profiles are recommended for Stage 2+.
In a Puma ST-Line, expect ~7.5 L/100km (city), ~5.3 L/100km (highway), or ~37 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 33–39 mpg UK. Economy drops significantly with aggressive driving due to turbo and performance tuning.
Yes. The QWFA is an interference design. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is front-mounted and designed for life-of-engine service under normal conditions.
Ford mandates WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) synthetic oil. This low-viscosity spec is critical for HPFP cam lobe lubrication, GPF protection, and emissions compliance. Never substitute with older Ford specs or non-approved 5W-30 oils.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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