The 2016 International Best Motors Prizes presentation which took place last June was a highly memorable moment for Ford. As a matter of fact, the forum, made of 65 automotive journalists from 31 countries, was greatly impressed by its 1.0L EcoBoost engine, awarding it the title of “Less Than 1.0L Motor of the Year” for a 5th consecutive victory.

Contrary to 2012, when the category was made up of only ten competitors, this year, the small Ford motor had to make its mark among 32 rivals, which it brilliantly succeeded in doing. In fact, it swiped the prize because, among others, of its performance, of its fuel economy, of its refinement, of its technology and of its manoeuvrability, elements that no other motor in its category succeeded in matching. In the words of Mr. Joe Bakaj, Product Conception, Europe Ford: “The EcoBoost 1.0L changed the game and, even if some manufacturers followed our lead, it still is, 5 years later, the unequalled reference point in its category.”

For his part, Mr. Dean Slavnich, co-president of the 18th edition of the 2016 International Best Motors Prizes and editor of the Engine Technology International magazine had nothing but praise for the 1.0L Ford EcoBoost: “It is unbelievable to see that a smaller and more fuel efficient motor that does not sacrifice power, for all its refinement and manoeuvrability. In fact, it can even improve these characteristics.”

The 1.0L Ford EcoBoost has therefore succeeded in amazing, which is not surprising since it literally is avant-garde. The proof is that, despite its small size, its turbo charging, its direct injection system and its variable pitch valves allow it to offer the consumer an impressive 123HP and 125ft-lb of torque performance, while still asking for minimal energetic expenditure.

The 1.0L EcoBoost powers vehicles in 72 countries across the planet and, in Canada, this small motor can be found in the belly of the Fiesta SE and the Focus SE. Naturally, the EcoBoost family does not end with this one and it offers a vast choice of sizes. And, with the 3.5L EcoBoost that will soon power the brand new GT Ford super car, we can bet that the manufacturer will still win many prizes in the years to come.