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 performance with urban refinement and emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), ensuring full Euro 6d compliance from launch.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load or marginal fuel lubricity conditions, highlighted in Ford Service Bulletin 23M04. This issue stems from early-design pump internals susceptible to thermal stress. From early 2023, Ford implemented an updated HPFP and revised PCM calibration to mitigate premature wear.

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 twin-scroll turbo provides strong mid-range torque ideal for responsive driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 (0W-20) to protect the timing chain and turbo bearings. The GPF mandates occasional highway driving to enable passive regeneration; frequent short trips may trigger active regen cycles or warning lights. High-pressure fuel pump longevity depends on consistent use of EN 228-compliant fuel with adequate lubricity. Post-early-2023 engines feature revised HPFP internals per Ford SIB 23M04.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C945-B1 (0W-20) specification (Ford SIB 23M04). Not interchangeable with ACEA C2/C3 oils.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2022–2025 UNCE engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9134).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes 95 RON fuel (Ford TIS Doc. T94600).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T94560, T94561, SIB 23M04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9134)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS T94580). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('C' for 1.5L EcoBoost). All UNCE units have black valve covers with integrated cam cover and a visible GPF canister in the exhaust. Critical differentiation from earlier 1.5L EcoBoost (e.g., UGJE): UNCE uses updated Bosch HDP6 HPFP with revised internals and updated PCM calibration. Service parts for HPFP require production date verification—units before 03/2023 use part #CV9Z‑9350‑AA, later use #CV9Z‑9350‑AB (Ford SIB 23M04).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD UNCE.
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