Ford Focus receives 'kinetic' facelift

Ford's Kuga crossover bears the face of what's to come from behind the blue oval's doors, but few cars exemplify the make's present design philosophy as well as the Focus. The newly redesigned Focus will be unveiled at today's Frankfurt Motor Show, facelifted to mesh well with its bigger brother, the Mondeo.

Set for a late 2007 launch, the new Euro-spec Focus will be the first vehicle to feature Ford's new low-CO2 ECOnetic technology and is expected to emit a scant 115g/km CO2. Featuring Ford's new 'kinetic design' exterior styling, the new Focus will also sport an optional PowerShift six-speed double-clutch transmission, and a turbodiesel alternative to the ECOnetic motor that emits only 120g/km CO2. Other new features include a capless refueling system, tire pressure warning system, a 230V socket, and LED rear lights.

The new GETRAG-developed Ford PowerShift transmission will function in a manner similar to the latest F1 transmissions, with a dual-clutch system pre-selecting the next gear even while the current gear remains engaged and under power. As the computer manages the transfer from one gear to the next, the two clutches ensure no torque interruption occurs.

In addition to the ECOnetic and turbodiesel 1.6 TDCi engines mentioned above, the Focus will also be available with a 1.8L Duratec Flexifuel variant, and a 2.0L Duratorq TDCi. When paired with the new PowerShift transmission the 2.0L diesel is expected to yield 10% better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions than the same motor mated to a conventional six-speed automatic. The Flexifuel motor will run on E85 or standard petrol.

The interior will also see some new touches, including upgraded plastics and fabrics, plus a redesigned instrument cluster enhanced with red illumination that also backlights the other controls. Beginning in early 2008, the Focus can be optionally fitted with the Ford Power Button, allowing keyless, push-button starts, as long as the driver has the key in the car. Two light presses fire the engine up, another touch turns it off again - but those with curious kids need not worry, Ford's built in a stop-gap to prevent the button from operating while the car is in motion.