The third generation of the Ford Escort, which is referred to as the Mk3, was introduced in 1980. The Mk3 Escort was a significant upgrade from the first two generations, featuring a complete exterior redesign, as well as new engines and mechanicals. These heavily updated cars were built with an eye on efficiency and improved packaging, which included a change to front wheel drive. The new engine range consisted of a range of inline four engines, with gasoline units ranging from 1.1L to 1.6L, with a 1.6L diesel inline four and turbocharged 1.6L also available. These engines were paired to both manual and automatic transmission options. Standard variants included the Popular, L, GL, and Ghia, while more notable variants included the 1.6i Cabriolet or South African 1600 Sport. Performance variants included the XR3, XR3i, RS1600i, and RS Turbo. Production of the Mk3 Escort ended in 1986, when it was replaced by the Mk4 Ford Escort.