Ford has announced details of a comprehensive update for the Focus hatchback and estate.
The mid-life refresh is aimed at keeping the family favourite on trend, with electrified drivetrains and bold infotainment upgrades inside.
Different trim levels will gain more distinctive styling, making use of Ford’s “human-centric” design philosophy.
An updated Focus ST model benefits from bespoke changes, including a new Mean Green paint option.
Design details with a human focus
Changes to the outside of the new Focus are relatively restrained. A new bonnet increases the overall height of the nose, and sees the Blue Oval Ford badge added to the grille itself.
LED headlights are now standard across all models, with fog lights integrated into their design. Darkened tail lights are intended to add a premium look, with updated LED units for high-spec models.
Connected series and Titanium models use a wide front grille with a chrome surround, with the sporty ST-Line getting a bespoke honeycomb item. Side skirts, a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler are all included on the ST-Line, too.
Ford will now offer the premium Vignale package for Titanium, ST-Line and Active models. Along with a luxurious interior, these cars will benefit from satin grilles and unique alloy wheels.
Vignale is no longer a standalone model.
Mild hybrid technology expands
Focus buyers will now be able to combine Ford’s seven-speed Powershift automatic transmission with its range of EcoBoost Hybrid petrol engines. A six-speed manual can be chosen for those who still want to shift their own gears.
Matching a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, the EcoBoost Hybrid engines can achieve up to 51.4mpg. An integrated starter/generator can recharge a lithium-ion battery from braking, and deploy power to help in-gear acceleration.
A non-hybrid EcoBoost petrol engine, producing 125hp, remains available.
Diesel drivers have not been forgotten entirely. The 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel remains, offered with 120hp. It can be combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and returns up to 56.5mpg.
Multiple drive modes, including a Slippery option for the Active model, are all included.
Bigger screens, fewer buttons
Making a major change inside the new Focus is Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system. Originally seen in the all-electric Mustang Mach-E, SYNC 4 uses machine learning to note individual driver preferences.
Key to SYNC 4 is a class-leading 13.2-inch central touchscreen. It uses graphics that look far more modern compared to the existing SYNC 3 display, and works wirelessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Controversially, Ford has followed the route of other manufacturers by ditching physical buttons where possible.
Heating and ventilation settings for the new Focus will now be operated through the central touchscreen.
Connected services and more safety
Online services will be a central part of SYNC 4, with FordPass app users able to access an array of digital services. Ford Power-Up wireless software updates will allow changes and upgrades to be made to the Focus remotely.
The FordPass app will allow drivers to check fuel levels, start their Focus remotely, and get security notifications. Connected Navigation, using live data from TomTom, can predict traffic information and warn of severe weather events.
Blind Spot Assist becomes available on the Focus for the first time. Unlike a simple warning, it can take action to guide the car away from potential danger.
A Rear Occupant Alert should stop drivers from unintentionally leaving pets and children in their Focus. If the rear doors are used at the start of a journey, a reminder will be given to check them at the end.
Practical upgrades for the Focus wagon
Extensive customer feedback has resulted in helpful changes to the boot of the new Focus estate model. Research found that 98 percent of estate owners were not aware of the features found in the rear of the previous version.
It means Ford has added a simple quick guide to all the new functions found in the boot.
The adjustable load floor is now centrally hinged, letting it divide the boot in two. A water-resistant wet zone is now included, with a removable liner aimed at storing wetsuits or wellies.
Meaner and greener: New Focus ST
A new Focus ST performance hatchback and estate are also part of the revised lineup.
Bespoke exterior details include a honeycomb front grille, extra aerodynamic features, and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels. An attention-grabbing Mean Green paint option delivers an extra dose of aggression.
A 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine delivers 280hp, and comes with an electronic limited-slip differential. A six-speed manual gearbox, including rev-matching technology, is standard. Buyers can opt for a seven-speed paddle shift automatic, too.
New front seats, developed by Ford’s own Performance engineers, are said to provide support and even promote spinal health.
New 2021 Ford Focus Prices
On the road pricing for the new Ford Focus:
- Trend – from £22,465
- Titanium – from £23,715
- Titanium Vignale – from £25,915
- Active – from £24,545
- Active Vignale – from £26,745
- ST-Line – from £24,545
- ST-Line Vignale – from £26,745
- ST – from £33,885
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