Ford has released a video teasing its next generation Focus before the car’s full reveal next week. Already spotted out testing numerous times, the new Focus is being prepared with the express purpose of usurping the Volkswagen Golf at top choice in the minds of family hatch buyers.
The Ford Focus model teased in the newly released video looks to be a similar model to that spotted during a promotional photo shoot a few weeks ago, sharing a similar set of diamond-cut alloy wheels and LED headlights.
From the image below, we can see the new Focus will take many design cues from the new Ford Fiesta supermini, sharing its sibling’s upright grille and lower bumper design. Flanking the grille are new LED headlights with a horizontal split in the centre of each unit, similar to the effect used on contemporary Volvos.
The changes aim to make the new Focus look more grown up and sophisticated than before, a theme that should continue in the cabin. The biggest source of criticism where the current Focus is concerned, we expect the cabin in the new car to take inspiration from the new Fiesta, with a high mounted infotainment screen, lower, simpler dash and a focus on higher quality materials. Interior space should also improve thanks the new Focus’ longer wheelbase, although basic exterior dimensions will remain close to what they are now.
Ford is hoping to reinstate the crisp handling that made the first two Focus generations such a hit with buyers. The current car, although capable, was missing some of the enthusiasm that defined its predecessors and this was due in part to the ‘One Ford’ philosophy that globalised Ford research and development. According to sources, Ford appears to be prioritising European tastes with this fourth generation car, a claim backed up by the placement of Brit Darren Palmer as project chief. Palmer has also been responsible for the latest seventh generation Fiesta.
The new Focus’ engine line-up is likely to prioritise three-cylinder petrol engines, although four-cylinder petrol and diesel options will also be available. Ford will launch an ST hot hatch version of the new generation car to battle the VW Golf GTI and the impressive new Hyundai i30 N, but details remain scarce at this stage.
Ford will also diversify the new Focus’ powertrain options via a hybrid version, while an estate, saloon and high-riding Active model will all be added to the range in time.
When it is launched next year, the Focus won’t only have traditional rivals like the VW Golf and Mazda 3 to deal with, but also the onslaught of compact SUVs and crossovers that have been luring mainstream buyers away from traditional hatchbacks.
This article originally appeared at evo.co.uk
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