The Ford UNCE is a 1,499 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2022 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, with responsive mid — range delivery ideal for compact SUVs and performance hatchbacks.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Puma ST, and Kuga ST — Line, the UNCE was engineered to balance sporty perform…
Production years 2022–2025 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9134).
The Ford UNCE is a 1,499 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact performance models (2022–2025). It combines direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk mid-range torque and agile urban drivability. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions, it balances sporty response with regulatory compliance and fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 84.8 mm | |
Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) | |
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 | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll (Honeywell GT1549L) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
Dry weight | 110 kg |
The Ford UNCE was used across Ford's C2/B6 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Kuga ST-Line and revised intake routing in the Focus ST-and from early 2023 the Puma ST adopted updated HPFP hardware, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The UNCE's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear under sustained high-load or marginal fuel conditions. Ford internal quality data from 2023 indicated elevated HPFP replacement rates in performance variants operating in hot climates, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust GPF control. Extended short-trip driving and fuel quality variance make adherence to OEM oil and fuel specs critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2022–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The UNCE is generally robust when maintained properly. Early units (2022–early 2023) had HPFP sensitivity to fuel quality, but early-2023 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes with Ford-specified 0W-20 and occasional highway driving for GPF regeneration are key to longevity.
The main issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear, GPF regeneration faults from short-trip driving, turbo actuator sticking, and minor cam cover oil leaks. These are documented in Ford service bulletins, particularly SIB 23M04 for HPFP concerns.
The UNCE powers the 1.5L EcoBoost 170 variants of the Focus ST (2022–2025), Puma ST (2022–2025), and Kuga ST-Line (2023–2025). All meet Euro 6d emissions standards and feature GPF and twin-scroll turbo technology.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +20–30 kW safely, as the stock internals handle moderate torque increases. However, aggressive tuning without HPFP and cooling upgrades may accelerate wear, especially on pre-early-2023 engines.
Good for a performance engine. In a Focus ST 1.5 EcoBoost 170, expect ~7.1 L/100km (city) and ~5.0 L/100km (highway), or about 41 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 38–44 mpg (UK) with spirited use.
Yes. The UNCE is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. Fortunately, the chain is robust and designed for life-of-engine use under proper maintenance.
Ford specifies SAE 0W-20 oil meeting WSS-M2C945-B1 standard. This low-viscosity oil ensures proper GPF compatibility and turbo lubrication. Never substitute with non-approved oils, as they may harm emissions systems or reduce HPFP life.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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