In Europe the Ford Focus is an affordable, well-engineered and stylish small car available in hatch, sedan, wagon and convertible bodystyles. It also features latest technologies such as a Powershift dual-clutch transmission, flex-fuel engines, a folding hard top roof (cabrio models only), and a range of efficient diesel and petrol engines. Its American counterpart on the other hand has been around since the late ’90s and misses out on most of the options available in Europe.

For the next-gen model due in late 2010, Ford will develop just one Focus model in line with its new global product development strategy. The cars will have unique styling and specifications to suit major markets but 87% of parts will common across the fleet, as revealed by Ford product chief Derrick Kuzak last month.

By streamlining its engineering process Ford will be able to cut costs and bring the car to market faster. The new model is expected to be based around the C1 platform, which underpins cars like the Volvo C30 and Mazda3, and will be manufactured in Europe, North America, Australia and possibly China.

This latest rendering gives us a possible new look for the car, showing that its styling will likely be influenced by the new Fiesta. Expect to see the full gamut of bodystyles including three and five-door hatchbacks plus a sedan, coupe and convertible.