Ford Focus

This year sees the launch of the 3^rd generation of the Ford Focus, and with 10 million Focus’ sold since its original launch in 1998 there is no denying the Focus has made its mark on the motoring world.

The body styling of the new focus follows on from the kinetic design introduced in the Fiesta last year. Kinetic design you say? Well if you think back to your old physics textbooks you will find it refers to an objects energy which is possessed due to its motion.

What that quick lesson means is that the styling on the focus gives the car vibrant and dynamic styling that gives the appearance of motion on the car even when stationary.

Perhaps one of the best improvements in styling can be seen in the sedan version, where the previous sedan looked like a hatch back with a suitcase strapped to its bum, I now find it hard to decide whether I prefer the hatch or sedan. A welcomed dilemma.

Knowing the market is clearly always an advantage when introducing a product, although some manufacturers overlook this and wonder why their shares take a nose dive.

Ford is very clear about who they are marketing the Focus towards – young and energetic people who enjoy life. Ford has often produced cars which have love/hate characteristics, which as a manufacturer is a bold and passionate decision.

This commitment from Ford produces cars which have heart and evoke emotional responses from people decades after production has ended.

The drive in the Focus is as enjoyable as ever, with new technology like the Torque Vectoring Control System whichallows the wheels to turn at different speeds by gently applying the brakes thereby limiting any understeer. By updating the suspension and creating a stiffer body, Ford has leapfrogged their competition.

Refinement has also taken a massive leap forward. Noise inside the cabin is minimal and at times I had to strain to hear any road noise, even on the rougher terrain.

Three engines will be available to the South Africans.  The Petrol models start with a 1.6 litre TiVCT, producing 92kW, followed by the 2.0 litre GDi with 125kW.

The 2.0 litre TDCi delivers amazing fuel consumption without any hint of its diesel nature under the bonnet.

The interior is elegantly understated with carefully placed extras on the dash. The materials used in the seats are made from recycled materials, a concerted effort by Ford to go green. I for one preferred the standard dash over that of the sport, as the sport dash tried perhaps too much to direct the driver’s attention towards the exuberant, flashy display.

Finally we get to the deal maker/breaker – price. With the level of quality offered, standard equipment afforded and a definite sense that Ford has put their heart and soul into the Focus, a price tag starting at R208 400 makes it a winner in the C segment.

Justin Stephenson