The Ford RFL is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2023 and 2025. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Puma, Focus, and Kuga across European markets, the RFL was engineered to balance everyday usability with low emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and precise lambda control, enabling full Euro 6d certification from launch.
One documented concern is intermittent low-pressure fuel pump (LPFP) control module faults under high ambient temperatures, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 25M03. This issue stems from thermal stress on the in-tank pump’s electronic driver circuit during sustained hot-weather operation. From late 2024, Ford updated the LPFP module design and revised ECU calibration to improve thermal resilience.
All production years (2023–2025) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9612).
The Ford RFL is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and crossover applications (2023–2025). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk low‑end torque and smooth throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d from launch, it balances drivability with stringent emissions compliance.
| 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 | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) + in-tank low-pressure pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett twin‑scroll (MGT2256VZ) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate torque ideal for city and highway use but requires 95 RON (minimum) fuel to avoid knock under load. Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) oil is essential for GPF compatibility and low-friction operation. Extended oil intervals beyond 16,000 km or 12 months may accelerate wear in high-temperature climates. The in-tank LPFP is sensitive to sustained high ambient heat; vehicles in southern Europe should avoid prolonged idling in traffic. Occasional highway driving ensures complete GPF regeneration and prevents soot accumulation.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C948-B1 (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 25M03). Not interchangeable with older Ford oil specs.
Emissions: Full Euro 6d compliance across all model years (2023–2025) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9612.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel; 98 RON enables optimal transient response (Ford TIS Doc. TIS-RFL-04).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-RFL-01 through TIS-RFL-04, SIB 25M03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9612)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Ford RFL was used across Ford's B‑Car and C‑Car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling in the Kuga and GPF tuning for urban Puma variants—and from late 2024 the LPFP control update created minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Ford TIS TIS-RFL-01). The 7th VIN digit is 'L' for RFL-equipped vehicles. All RFL engines feature a black plastic intake manifold with '1.5 EcoBoost' branding and a single twin-scroll turbo. Critical differentiation from Q4BA: RFL uses an updated LPFP control module (Part No. CX2Z-9350-C) and revised ECU logic for thermal protection. ECU part number suffix '-RFL' confirms application; pre-late-2024 units may lack thermal LPFP protection per Ford SIB 25M03.
The RFL's primary reliability risk is low-pressure fuel pump (LPFP) control module thermal failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in southern European markets. Ford internal field data (2025) indicated a measurable uptick in LPFP-related DTCs before 40,000 km in vehicles operated consistently above 35°C, while UK DVSA data shows minimal emissions failures due to robust GPF design. Sustained idling in traffic without airflow exacerbates thermal stress, making driving pattern and software calibration critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2023–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2024–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD RFL.
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