Auto Express published some info about the next generation Ford Focus along with one rendering of the car and wow, it looks awesome. Quite a change from Ford. In order to compete with Opel’s upcoming new Astra, the new Focus, beside the new aggressive look, will also be offered with a new EcoBoost engine range. The smallest engine will be a 1.0 liter turbo four-cylinder that will develop 89 or 108 hp, while Ford expects the bestseller to be a new 1.6 liter turbo with 148 and 178 hp form. Of course, diesel engines will also be available, a new 1.6 liter TDCi (delivering 89, 108 or 128 hp), and a 2.0 liter (168 hp or 197 hp). Manual gearboxes will come as standard, with Ford probably offering PowerShift twin-clutch transmission too. All engines are optimized for better fuel economy and lowered CO2 emissions.
But that’s not all, because it looks like Ford will start a powerful offensive in the hatchback market. According to Auto Bild, Ford’s European branch is also working on a Focus coupe, which will compete Volkswagen’s recently introduced Scirocco and Renault’s new Megane Coupe.
The next generation Ford Focus is scheduled to go on sale towards the end of 2010, with the coupe set to debut around the same date. Just like it did with the new Mondeo, Ford plans to head further upmarket with this car, setting the price tag higher than the current generation’s. Estate and coupé-cabriolet versions are also scheduled for 2011.
Source: Auto Express