The long awaited new Ford Focus is now on sale with an entry level price of €20,825 ex-works for the 1.6 VCT petrol model (Band B ). The diesel line-up kicks off at €21,325 ex-works for the 1.6 TDCi version (Band A ).
The range comprises four specification levels - the entry-level Focus, Focus Style, Zetec, and top-of-the range Titanium. The line-up will be available in a sporty five-door hatchback, sleek four-door saloon and a stylish five-door wagon. A three-door hatchback will not be part of the new Focus range.
The entry-level Focus features ESP with traction assist, Ford intelligent protection system, body colour bumpers, mirrors and spoiler (five door ), electric front windows, power door mirrors, remote central locking with flip key, stereo radio/CD with USB connectivity, and capless refuelling.
Ford has introduced a range of new and useful smart technologies, most of which are being made available for the first time to motorists who drive cars in this segment. These include active city stop that will automatically bring the car to a halt in the event of a low-speed collision, and auto-start-stop, which effectively turns off the car’s engine once the car has remained immobile and in neutral for a period of 0.5 seconds, thus saving fuel and reducing emissions. Torque vectoring control greatly improves cornering as the car reacts to the road 100 times per second resulting in more grip and ultra-precise handling.
The line-up of engines for the new Focus is as follows: 1.6 TDCi 95bhp and 115bhp Band A diesel (with fuel efficient auto-start-stop technology ); 1.6 VCT 105bhp and 125bhp Band B petrol; and 2.0 TDCi 115bhp six-speed powershift automatic Band B.
When it was introduced in 1998, the original Ford Focus brought new levels of agility and responsiveness to the C segment. The new Focus again raises the bar. Greater dynamics yields class-leading driving quality that blends outstanding steering precision and road feedback with significantly improved refinement and ride control and indeed comfort.
While the new Focus is very big in delivering new technology at reasonable cost, there is also great styling to equal the substance. Now legendary Kinetic styling excelled in these latest creations. The five-door and the saloon in particular certainly have the x-factor.
Expressive exterior and interior design lies at the heart of the Focus’ appeal, taking its acclaimed kinetic design language to the next level, and providing customers with a rewarding ownership experience.
With its striking front end, sleek profile, dramatic rising beltline and athletic stance, the new Focus clearly conveys the rewarding driving experience that awaits customers when they take to the road.
The sporty five-door hatchback, stylish saloon and sleek wagon Focus models have been carefully developed to have their own distinctive appeal. Each bodystyle has its own clear identity and unique rear-end treatment, while sharing the same sporting front-end appearance with its dynamic new interpretation of Ford’s signature lower trapezoidal grille.
While drivers will appreciate the cockpit-style driving environment and superior craftsmanship, the cabin has lost none of the comfort and practicality which is a key characteristic of the Focus brand and driver appeal.
A key element of the interior is the quality of craftsmanship. The cabin is bold and contemporary. The sculptured shape of the soft-touch instrument panel and the choice of superior trim materials help to give occupants the feeling that they are travelling in a high quality car.
"The Ford Focus is a key model for the Irish market”, Eddie Murphy, managing director of Ford Ireland told the Advertiser. “Its all round great driving ability has ensured the crown as Ireland’s favourite car since its first arrival in 1998 and I am sure this new model with its up-to-the-minute technology and highly efficient engines will again find favour with Ireland’s value-conscious motorists."
It is always refreshing when a new model delivers on style and substance. The new Ford Focus ticks both those boxes and more.
