Ford Focus
Posted by: hattoi on: June 2, 2008
Ford Motor Company is slipping into a seriously aggressive gear. After tasting super success with some current models, it’s now shifting its focus on the Kraut klan’s big boys: BMW, Audi and Volkswagen. And the weapon it’s using is the 2009 Focus.
The once budget sub-compact is now puffing its 16-valve chest and jumping into the ring with the BWM 1 Series, Audi A3 and the upcoming Golf Mk VI. It’s an ambitious plan indeed, but the Focus looks capable.
The styling is an absolute traffic stopper, although I’d brace myself for answering questions peppered with ‘Peugeot’ and ‘206′ in them. It’s not entirely original styling, but credit must be given where it’s due and the new Focus has some strong design cues . The swept back LED headlamps, double grille (main grille and a large air intake grille, a la Audi), the arching roof with a sharply raked windscreen, the solid-looking rear and the stylishly indented door panels make for a compact car that’s tres chic. Thanks to its wider stance, streamlined body, including a neat little roof spoiler, and a longer wheelbase, this baby is the sportiest looking Focus ever.
In a bid to reduce emissions and weight, composite materials have been used liberally. The 2009 Focus will come loaded with techno goodies across all trim levels including sat-nav, Bluetooth connectivity, internet access and keyless start, mostly found in an entirely different segment of cars.
The current engine is likely to be replaced by a smaller turbocharged unit with lower emissions and more power, but one that will definitely feature a stop/start system that cuts off the engine when in traffic. It will be coupled with a dual clutch gearbox with Ford’s newest ECOnetic model, to make it one of the greenest cars in 2009. The Focus has enjoyed great success in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE, and Ford can look forward to beefing up that success with the chunkier, sportier Focus MkIII.
The Focus coupé will probably make its debut later this year and reach our shores in early 2009. You’ll notice when it does.
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