The redesigned Ford Focus will offer features found in larger, more expensive vehicles because an increasing number of buyers are coming from those segments.

Traffic information, WiFi, active park assist and a rear-mounted camera are some of the new technology features Ford says will separate Focus from the competition.

Ford also will tout its new direct-injection, four-cylinder engine; dual clutch automatic transmission; fuel economy estimated at 40 mpg on the highway; and the car’s stiff body structure, engineered to improve ride and handling.

The intent is “not just to match the appeal of Honda, Toyota and VW but to exceed it with leading fuel economy, technology never seen before in this segment, top driving qualities and craftsmanship and safety innovations,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of global product development.

Kuzak said Ford is not abandoning value-minded shoppers. “The new Focus covers the low as well as the higher price range.” The vehicle’s content is being expanded to reach buyers who demand more features, he said, speaking at a preview this month at Ford headquarters in Dearborn, MI.

Ford sold 120,666 Focus vehicles through August, a 3 percent increase over 2009. In 2009, 160,433 cars were sold, an 18 percent drop from 2008.

The Focus will be sold globally, although the model lineup will vary by region. For example, the U.S. line initially will consist of a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback. A performance model called the ST and an electric-powered vehicle are planned for 2012.

The car’s shape is seven percent more aerodynamic than the 2011 model, for example. An available grille features electrically operated shutters that slightly improves fuel economy. The shutters are closed at high speed and open at lower speeds to improve cooling.

The Focus has more high strength steel than any other vehicle the automaker currently produces, Ford said. Specifically, the structure is composed of 55 percent high-strength and ultra-high strength steel, which the automaker says is stronger and lighter weight than mild steel. The body structure is 30 percent stiffer than its predecessor, Ford says.  The end result is better driving dynamics and improved noise, vibration and harshness control.

The new Focus also marks the introduction of Ford’s most advanced naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine.  The 2.0-liter engine features direct injection and has twin independent variable camshaft timing that provides better fuel economy and performance than the previous Focus engine.

The engine has an estimated 155 hp and 140 pounds feet of torque, and it is standard on all models, as is electric power steering.

Ford says 80 percent of the components and manufacturing processes used to build the U.S. version of the Focus will be common with other Focus models sold and assembled globally.

Source AutoNews

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