Attractive car, that fourth generation Ford Focus. But until now he looked so downcast, with drooping headlights and low pout. The facelift fixes that, with a higher front and, of course, another big mouth that car manufacturers are so fond of these days.
The current Ford Focus has been on the market since 2018, as a five-door hatchback, station wagon and raised Active version. His facelift is not subtle. You can actually distinguish the new model from its predecessor. The Ford logo is no longer on the edge of the hood, but has been given a prominent position in the larger grille. The headlights are flatter and slimmer. At the back, only the layout of the light units has been adjusted.
Mild-hybrid versions Ford Focus now also with automatic transmission
In the motor area, much remains the same. The Focus is available with a 1.0-litre petrol engine (100 or 125 hp) and a six-speed manual transmission. In the diesel area, there is a choice of a 1.5 EcoBlue with 120 hp (manual or automatic) and a 2.0 EcoBlue with 150 hp (automatic). New is that the two mild hybrids (125 and 155 hp) can also be ordered with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Ford Focus ST remains unchanged, with a 280 hp 2.3-litre petrol engine.
SYNC4 infotainment system with larger touchscreen
In the interior, the new 13.2-inch screen of the SYNC4 infotainment system stands out. Ford writes that the operation of the heating and ventilation is now also via the touchscreen. We’re not a fan of that, but Ford reassures us that all functions are never more than two clicks away from the driver. The new SYNC4 system can also be controlled via voice commands.
Now also blind spot warning for the trailer
The upgraded Focus features LED running lights with Automatic High Beam Control and a Maneuvering Light as standard. The latter means that the car provides a wider beam of light at low speed, so that you have a better overview. Dynamic Matrix LED headlights are optional. Interesting is the new Blind Spot Information System with Trailer Coverage. If you enter the dimensions of the trailer here, it also warns about cars in the blind spot of the trailer.
‘Wet zone’ in the trunk of Ford Focus Wagon
Also useful is the so-called ‘wet zone’ in the trunk of the Ford Focus Wagon. It is located in the space under the loading floor, is coated with a special material and is intended for transporting, for example, wet clothing or dirty boots. The water-resistant liner is removable for easier drying or cleaning. Delivery of the renewed Focus will start in the first quarter of 2022.