Focus on hybrid powertrain
Ford has revealed the new Focus, which boasts a new design and fuel-efficient electrified powertrain alongside advanced connectivity and driver-assistance technologies.
Arriving in the middle of next year, the Kiwi line-up will include three models including an electrified 48-volt EcoBoost Hybrid.
Ford’s hybrid engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission will now be standard for the Active and ST-Line X variants on our shores.
The range features selectable drive-mode technology, which enabling drivers to choose between normal, sport and eco that can adjust responses of the throttle pedal, electronic power-assisted steering and automatic gearbox.
In addition, the Active features slippery mode for low-grip conditions and trail mode to help maintain momentum on deformable surfaces.
The new ST features sporty exterior styling and in-house developed Performance seats.
It continues to be offered with a high-performance 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, delivering 205kW and 420Nm of torque supported by a twin-scroll turbocharger with anti-lag technology all paired with a seven-speed automatic and paddle shifters.
The Focus line-up introduces a fresh exterior “inspired by Ford’s human-centric” design philosophy, giving each variant a “distinct personality”.
A new bonnet design increases the nose’s height of for greater visual presence, while the blue oval’s badge is shifted from the bonnet lip to the centre of the larger upper grille.
It will be Ford’s first passenger vehicle to have the new SYNC 4 communication and entertainments system. This uses a machine-learning algorithm to learn from drivers’ behaviour to deliver more accurate suggestions and search results over time.
This system is supported by a 13.2-inch central touchscreen. It has an intuitive interface that means motorists are never more than a touch or two away from any application, information or control.
The screen also incorporates controls for functions, such as heating and ventilation previously activated using physical buttons, resulting in a cleaner and less cluttered centre console.
Advanced speech recognition allows occupants to use talk naturally, combining on-board data with internet searches – enabled by FordPass Connect – for quick responses to commands.
Using the FordPass app, connected services can be accessed using a smartphone so people to stay connected from anywhere with a data signal to utilise features such as vehicle status for checking fuel levels, oil life and more, and remote start.
Ford NZ will launch its facelifted three-model Focus range – consisting of the ST, Active and ST-Line X (overseas model pictured) – in mid-2022 with pricing to be confirmed.
