Ford Unveils Next-Generation 'Focus'
Published:11-January-2010
By Staff Reporter
Ford has unveiled its next-generation 'Focus.' The new model leads the company's new range of global C-cars based on a common platform underpinning up to 10 vehicles and 2 million units of annual production by 2012. Focus will start production simultaneously in Europe and North America in late 2010 and will go on sale early in 2011.
The four-door sedan and five-door hatchback are previewed at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, prior to their production start for Europe and North America late in 2010, and market launch early in 2011.
Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Ford, said: "The new Ford Focus is a clear demonstration that our ONE Ford strategy is providing global consumers with great products that harness the best of Ford Motor Company. The efficiencies generated by our new global C-car platform will enable us to provide Ford Focus customers with an affordable product offering quality, fuel efficiency, safety and technology beyond their expectations."
Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development at Ford, said: "Global customers increasingly want smaller cars with outstanding fuel economy, but without sacrificing any of the style, technology, connectivity and driving quality they demand from larger vehicles. Our next generation of C-cars - led by the exciting new Focus - will clearly show Ford is ready to meet that challenge."
The company claims that the new Focus blends steering precision and road feedback with improved refinement and ride control. The chassis, with optimized new designs for the 'control blade' multilink rear suspension and semi-isolated front and rear subframes, is complemented by electric power assist steering. Cornering stability and agility are enhanced with an advanced Dynamic Cornering Control system.
