2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0-Liter EcoBoost Dissed by Consumer Reports

Cue Tom Mutchler, who is credited in the video review below as being an auto engineer. On any given day, auto engineers do know their thing and what makes a car better than another one, but Tom doesn't seem to follow that mould. He starts the CR review by posing the question if the EcoBoost-powered Fiesta in slow…

Well let's compare the 999cc EcoBoost with the naturally aspirated 1.6-liter gasoline drinker. Although tiny, the EcoBoost is rated 201 Nm (148 lb-ft) of torque and 123 horsepower, while the bigger capacity unit churns out 152 Nm (112 lb-ft) and 120 horsepower. Based on the most analytical of reasoning, bigger torque equals better acceleration. Turbocharging delivers peak torque lower in the rev range, which translates to better pulling power and improved fuel economy. Further more, the punchy three-banger has a sporty, throbbing noise to it when you step on the loud pedal more firmly.

And that "you have to keep shifting often in order to keep the engine in the right rev range" also applies to the naturally aspirated 1.6-liter, so that's not the best of arguments either. Mr. Mutchler also implies that the $995 extra over the Ford Fiesta 1.6L "seems like paying more for less." Interesting wordplay there, but how do you explain the improved fuel economy and slightly faster 0 to 60 mph run?

He goes on to say that the little three-pot is a refined engine for a three-cylinder, which we agree with, but finishes the sentence with a not so inspired "that's like saying it's the best case of flu you ever had," continuing by saying that "this engine it just isn't all that refined." Could you make up your mind already?

Mind our rant, but some of us had higher expectations from the otherwise talented Consumer Reports auto team.