New, but still Focused

If you have not driven any of the Ford products kitted with its 1,0-litre Ecoboost engine yet, you are losing out on experiencing one of the many technological wonders of the modern world. This engine is simply astounding, whether it comes fitted in a small car (Fiesta) or now, also in the much larger-bodied new Focus.

Edgy – but not nervous

Edgy, more defined or as Ford refers to it, cohesive – it does not matter which one you prefer, the exterior of the new Focus certainly is more edgy – sharper – and, family relationships (Fiesta/Fusion) are becoming somewhat more intimate, if you catch my drift.
The combination of the redesigned grille, bumper with air dam, the slimmer headlight clusters and the design lines across the bonnet have added more definition and focus to the front end, also creating a broader, lower and much more dynamic stance, so much so that it feels somewhat out of balance with the “higher” shoulder line towards the rear end of the car.
Side on the Focus does not offer anything special or extraordinary, but the rear end with its spoiler, as part of the boot lid, does “feel” more solid and well rounded than that of the previous Focus.

Driver focussed – still

Noticeable upon entry on the driver’s side is less bling. The designers have changed the ergonomics (more intuitive) and the centre stack has fewer controls and, most importantly in my view – the detailing is not as in-your-face as it used to be. The layout, although still very much driver focussed, is not as claustrophobic as it used to be.
The interior door-handle positions are perfect – right on hand when removing your hand from the steering. Seats are snug and comfortable with enough legroom in the rear.
With this new model the rear seats can be pulled up and forward towards the front seat backs – push/pull the rear seat back down onto the floor and you have a nearly completely flat luggage space.
And, I am about to shout – at last someone else, apart from Honda, has seen the light. This alone, is enough to elevate the Focus’ standing a couple of notches up on its competition.

And then – that 1,0-litre

The Focus is available in both a 1,0-litre (92kW and 170Nm) and a 1,5-litre (132kW and 240Nm) Ecoboost petrol engines.
The test vehicle was kitted with the 1,0-litre.
Its six-speed manual box is quiet and smooth (I have experienced the auto box in the Fiesta – Autodealer Lowveld of June 9) and the ratios are perfect for this engine.
Ford offers a 5,0litre/100km fuel index (combined) on the 1,0-litre – mine proved to be a 6,1litre/100km over the duration of a weekend – still very good though in my book considering the size and weight of the Focus.
The overall driving experience is a solid and confident one with excellent road-holding and vibrant throttle response that will satisfy most drivers/owners.

Conclusion

Considering Ford’s ICE (in-car entertainment), Ford SYNC (on which we have reported extensively in the past) and all the standard safety and luxury features which come standard in the Focus, one realises how good a family-car option the Focus really is.
With more than 12 million Ford Focusses sold since 1998, its reputation is beyond reproach and is becoming more solid by the day. But don’t take my word for it – the team at Nelspruit Auto on 013-757-3500 would love to let you test drive the Focus.

Photos:www.quickpic.co.za