This sedan is littered with creature comforts and luxe features normally found in higher end vehicles, but that’s just Ford’s way of saying everyone deserves some indulgence, especially because their customers have remained loyal to them over the years. And with this give-and-take strategy, we’re not wondering why this loyalty just keeps getting stronger.
So what goes into the all-new Focus? For starters, what you see is what you get. The models we’re expecting to come to our shores will look just like the model launched in Bangkok. It features two new engines: A new four-cylinder Duratec 2.0-liter Ti-VCT GDi and a Duratec 1.6-liter Ti-VCT option.
The new 2.0L variant combines high-pressure gasoline direct injection (GDi) with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) and delivers 170 hp and 200 Nm of torque. It boasts a 20% increase in fuel efficiency than the engine it replaces and is mated to a six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission. A SelectShift Automatic™ functionality option is also available, allowing drivers to manually control gears.
Meanwhile, a Duratec 1.6-litre Ti-VCT delivers 125 hp and 159 Nm of torque and matched with either the Ford PowerShift automatic or a standard five-speed manual transmission.
The 2013 Focus also has rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, cruise control, powered sunroof, and an auto-dimming rear view mirror to reduce headlight glare. That’s already pretty sweet; but since Ford is being generous, this stylish sedan also comes with Active Park Assist, Active City Stop, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Smart Keyless Entry, and Ford Power Start.
As you can see, Ford has made sure that the Focus keeps you... well, focused on your driving, leaving all extra safety precautions to the car. To top it all off, the new Focus comes equipped with the award-winning Ford SYNC, the hands-free communication and multimedia system found in Ford’s higher end models.
“The all-new Focus represents the strengths and benefits of our global One Ford strategy in serving our customers across the region,” said Joe Hinrichs, President of Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. “We’ve gone further in every aspect of this next-generation vehicle to give our customers quality, fuel efficiency, safety and smart technology beyond their expectations.”
Let me get this straight: Ford is about to launch a stylish sedan that’s fuel efficient, packed with automatic sensor gadgets, Bluetooth connectivity and USB connection, and can automatically parallel park hands-free for you. The bar has officially been raised. Let’s just hope all those electronic goodies are included in the Philippine models!
The 2013 Ford Focus is expected to reach Philippine shored between the second and third quarter this year. There has been no mention though if a hatchback version would be coming our way.
