All-new Ford Focus breaks cover

Ford has unveiled the fourth-generation Focus family hatchback – “the most accomplished and technically advanced Focus ever”.

Almost seven million Focus cars have been sold in Europe and more than 16 million around the world since the game-changing Focus was introduced in 1998.

Available to order now in five-door and estate body styles, the new Focus range starts at £17,930 (more than £2,000 below the outgoing model) and first deliveries are expected in September.

“Our all-new Ford Focus is the pinnacle of technology and driving appeal in its segment,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe.

“The chance to build a completely new car from a fresh piece of paper does not come around often. We grabbed it with both hands, to develop the best mid-size family car that money can buy.”

Designed from a clean sheet of paper, Ford says the new Focus “ushers in a new era for technology, comfort, space and driving experience”, and the line-up will include the first Focus Active crossover and range-topping Focus Vignale.

Ford claims the new car offers best-in-class cabin space, driving dynamics and aerodynamics, while there are also big advances in driver assistance systems and connectivity.

The new Focus has a more muscular, sporty look, delivering fuel-efficiency and CO2 emission improvements of 10% across the range, according to Ford data.

Technology available will include the first head-up display for a Ford model in Europe and Active Park Assist 2 which enables fully automated parking manoeuvres at the push of a button.

Other driver assistance tech includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Speed Sign Recognition and Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System and Evasive Steering Assist – a segment-first technology that helps drivers steer around stopped or slower vehicles to help avoid collisions – plus Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian (Ford’s Autonomous emergency braking system).

FordPass Connect, an embedded modem for connectivity on the move, will be introduced, along with a Wireless charging pad, the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, plus B&O PLAY audio.

Advanced EcoBoost petrol and EcoBlue diesel engines will be supported by new eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a 10% fuel-efficiency improvement across the range.