BY JUSTIN HILLIARD | 15th Feb 2019
Ford launched its fourth-generation Focus small car in December 2018 with three variants – Trend hatch and ST-Line hatch and wagon.
All variants were motivated by a 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produced 134kW of power at 6000rpm and 240Nm of torque at 1600rpm.
An eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission with paddle-shifters was mated to all variants, with drive exclusively sent to the front wheels.
The Focus was the first model to be underpinned by Ford’s new C2 platform, ushering in a “human-centric” philosophy for its clean-sheet exterior and interior designs, as well as a 40 and 20 per cent increase in front crash load capability and torsional rigidity respectively.
The A-pillars were positioned further rearward, resulting in a longer bonnet and front fenders, while the wheelbase was 53mm longer and the overhangs were shorter. Weight was reduced by up to 88 kilograms in like-for-like variants.
Aerodynamics were honed further thanks to a sleeker, lower profile and truncated corners as well as an active grille shutter, air-curtain inlets, an optimised rear spoiler and window strakes, and additional underbody shielding.
The ST-Line added a honeycomb grille insert, a bodykit, a 10mm-lower sports suspension (including a multi-link rear axle), chrome dual exhaust tailpipes, rear privacy glass and 17-inch alloy wheels to stand out from the Trend.
Inside, the ST-Line picked up a flat-bottom steering wheel, sports seats, red stitching, a black roofliner and alloy pedals.
The wagon version also featured roof rails, a two-tier boot floor, load-compartment loops, a rear tonneau cover and remote seat release. With its split-fold second row stowed, 1653L of cargo capacity was available.