With the Mk2 Escort facing stiff competition from a new wave of hatchbacks, including its Fiesta stablemate that was actually more spacious inside, Ford gave its bestseller a radical makeover with the launch of the Mk3 version in September 1980. Codenamed Erika, the Mk3 was driven by the front wheels, while the new body embraced the hatchback concept, albeit with a bustle that extended the tailgate for a hint of conventional bootlid. Also brand new was independent rear suspension and the addition of Ford’s new CVH engine (Compound Valve Hemispherical) in 1.3- and 1.6-litre sizes, with the entry-level engine being the Fiesta’s 1.1-litre Kent-based Valencia.
What was more familiar to Escort buyers was the choice of trim levels – base (Popular), L, GL and Ghia – the majority of which were available in three- and five-door hatchback and three-door estate body styles, with a five-door estate joining the range in 1983, plus a Cabriolet. On top of these, sporting variants included the new XR3 and subsequent XR3i, which came eight months after the limited-run RS1600i and was later sold alongside the boosted RS
