Ford Working on 177-hp 1.0-Liter Engine

Ford’s work with turbocharging and direct injection is already yielding exciting results from small engines.  The turbocharged Ecoboost V6 in the 2012 Ford F-150 makes more horsepower than many V8s, and similar results are coming to all shapes and sizes of Ford engines.  Now Ford is reportedly considering a 177-hp version of the company’s 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine.

The three-cylinder is currently not offered in U.S. vehicles, but a 177-hp version would make a very compelling upgrade to the Fiesta (shown here). Left Lane News claims that the 177-hp 1.0-liter would possiblty make as much as 200 lb-ft of torque.  That combination would turn the Fiesta into one of the sportiest small cars you can buy right now and throw a very bright light on Ford’s advances in turbocharged engines.

The Ford Focus in Europe is the most likely destination for the three-cylinder engine, which uses and electric supercharger in addition to the turbo.  The 177-hp Focus will slot below the 247-hp Focus ST but above the standard 1.0-liter Ecoboost model, which gets 123-hp.