Ford unveiled the all-new Ford Focus yesterday. Here’s a visual comparison between the (fourth-gen) 2018 Ford Focus and the (facelifted third-gen) 2014 Ford Focus.
The all-new Ford Focus’s more upmarket design is somewhat inspired by that of the latest Ford Fiesta. Compared to the previous generation Ford Focus, it is drastically different. Ford has redesigned VW Golf competitor from the ground up and made it look more mature proportionally. The new generation model looks more premium and sportier as well.
At the front, a considerably larger radiator grille is flanked by swanky full-LED headlamps. An Adaptive Front Lighting System adjusts the headlight beam angle and intensity as per the prevailing driving environment. A Glare-free high-beam reduces the case of accidentally dazzling other drivers. The hood is longer and this adds to the sportiness of the car.
On the sides, the beltline is flattish until the B-pillar and rises only from behind there. This gives a more neat look to the greenhouse and a more mature styling to the profile overall. The roofline still falls in a coupe-like fashion. The new door mirrors have a purposeful design for mitigating the buffeting throb effect that can occur when one window is lowered at speed.
At the rear, the car looks smarter and more powerful now with the new roof spoiler, two-piece LED lamps and satin-finished “FOCUS” wide-spaced branding inbetween.
In addition to the sporty ST-Line variant, Ford will offer the Ford Focus in a luxurious Vignale variant and a crossover Active variant as well. The three variants have different styling tweaks on the front and rear for an individual look. The ST-Line variant sports more open front apertures that enhance performance and give a peek at the engine behind, signature ST-Line lower wing elements directing air to the air-curtain inlets, an aggressively styled rear diffuser and a larger functional roof spoiler. It also gets unique springs that lower the height by 10 mm.
The Vignale variant has a “coast-to-coast” lower front aperture designed for a more jewel-like and artisanal appearance, signature Vignale grille mesh and restrained Vignale decor elements such as the satin aluminium finish for the roof rails, fascia and rocker inserts. A four-coat Dark Mulberry exterior colour is exclusive to this grade.
The Active grade has contrast silver-painted front and rear skid plates and rocker inserts and bespoke front-end design, protective black wheel arches, and it sits more than 30 mm higher.
The interior of the fourth-gen Ford Focus has an uncanny resemblance to the latest Ford Fiesta. Compared to old Focus’ interior, the all-new Focus’ interior has a simplified and less cluttered design and offers advanced technologies. Here too, the ST-Line, Vignale and Active variants get an individual look. The ST-Line grade has sporty carbon fibre-effect finishes and red stitching. The Vignale grade flaunts premium leather and fine-grain wood-effect finishes. The Active grade speaks of its tougher character with more rugged, textured materials and surfaces.
Getting to the advanced technologies on board, the redesigned Ford Fiesta is Europe’s first Ford with a head-up display, and it features 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging pad and a 675-watt B&O PLAY audio system with 10 speakers, including a 140 mm subwoofer and a mid-range speaker as well.
The fourth-gen Ford Focus is the first model based on the new C2 platform. The new platform enhances crash performance, delivers more interior space and supports improved aerodynamics for reduced fuel consumption. The redesigned model measures 4,378 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width and 1,454 mm in height. It has a 2,701 mm wheelbase.
Ford will offer the all-new Ford Focus with 85 PS/100 PS/125 PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol, 150 PS/182 PS 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol, 95 PS/120 PS 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel and 150 PS 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engines. Transmission choices include 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic. Selectable drive modes and Continuously Controlled Damping - a first for the compact hatchback - offer better driving dynamics and improve comfort.
Also Read: 2018 Ford Ka+ (2018 Ford Figo) officially revealed
The new generation Ford Focus will go on sale internationally later this year. Its Euro-spec version's production takes place at the Saarlouis assembly facility in Germany.
