Ford New Zealand has confirmed the all-new Focus, revealed in London overnight, will arrive in New Zealand before the end of this year.
The first vehicle to be built on Ford’s 'clean-sheet' C2 global platform, the new Focus is heralded as the most advanced, highly equipped and stylish Focus yet.
“The Ford state-of-the-art plant in Germany will become the single-source for our entire Focus range,” said Ford New Zealand Managing Director, Simon Rutherford.
“Judging from the highly-sophisticated and praised Fords from the same plant, current Focus ST and Focus RS models, it’s going to mean great things for the entire line.”
Ford Focus ST line
The all-new Focus features a completely redesigned body. A larger Font grille sits between the horizontally-biased headlamps, which are placed as far outboard as possible to enhance width and stance. In the rear, the taillamps are now two-piece items allowing for a more versatile deck-lid opening.
The new Focus is also bigger than the current model, a move Ford says creates a more premium, sporting silhouette while offering increased room in the cabin.
The wheelbase has been extended by 53mm but overhangs front and rear have been shortened. The A-pillars have been moved rearward while the sheet metal of the C-pillars sits squarely over the rear wheels.
The new platfrom the Focus is built on is said to improve torsional rigidity by 20 per cent compared with the previous generation Focus, and the stiffness of individual suspension attachment points is increased by up to 50 per cent to reduce flex for better body control.
Ford Focus Active
Ford New Zealand's Focus range will be powered by two engine options paird with a new quick-shifting transmission; an entry-level 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine and a new 1.5-litre EcoBoost.
The EcoBoost 1.5-litre is a turbocharged three-cylinder that develops high torque at low rpm for greater drivability, with advanced construction for improved efficiency.
A combination of port fuel injection and direct fuel injection helps deliver high power and responsiveness alongside enhanced fuel-efficiency, with an increase in fuel-efficiency under light engine loads. Mated to both engines is an eight-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission.
Ford Focus Titanium
As standard, all models will come fitted with Autonomous Emergency Braking and a near-180 degree rear camera. Optional saftey feature will include Adaptive Cruise Control with 'Stop & Go' when traveling in stop-start traffic, Evasive Steering Assist and Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert.
Full details of New Zealand's MY18 Ford Focus range will be announced closer to the local launch.
