All new Ford Focus
FORD has pulled the covers off the all-new Ford Focus which will go on sale in Europe in early 2011.
The new car is being billed as a true world model and will form the basis of 10 unique versions.
Ford says total sales of the new C-car platform that underpins the new Ford Focus will hit 2 million a year by 2012. It will be built at three locations worldwide – Germany, America and China.
The first cars on sale to use the new platform will be the new Ford C-Max and Grand C-Max, on sale at Ford car dealers later this year.
Despite being a world car, European engineers have led development of the model – and engines have been designed by the team in Dunton, England. These will include TDCi diesel and EcoBoost petrol units that, says Ford, offer mpg improvements of between 10 and 20 percent.
Suspension will be a redesign of the current class-leading model, with a new fuel saving electric power steering system.
It’s being shown in 5-door hatch and 4-door saloon form at the Detroit Motor Show, but will also spawn estate and 3-door hatch variants. There are also rumours of a coupe model.
Quality has been prioritised, says Ford, in an effort to close the gap to the Volkswagen Golf and premium models such as the Audi A3.
With the current success of the recent all-new Vauxhall Astra, plus the massive reputation of the Golf, it looks like the stage is set for a big battle in the key family hatchback sector.
What are your first reactions to the surprise unveiling of Ford’s all-new Focus?
