A NEW Ford Focus has been unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in the States.
It's a great looking step forward from the present rather nondescript model, with sweeping lines which combine elements from the lovely Fiesta and from the Kuga 4x4.
We will get our first look at it at the Geneva show in March and sales will begin in 2011.
Ford promises it will deliver best-in-class fuel economy and emissions along with major improvements in ride and handling, quality, safety and technology.
The new model forms the start of Ford's new strategy to use common platforms for its cars around the world, so versions will be built in Germany, Russia, America and China.
The engine range here will include the new Ecoboost 1.6-litre turbocharged, direct-injection petrol - as well as revised versions of the existing 1.6- and 2.0-litre turbodiesels, and a full battery-electric version is planned during the lifetime of the car.
Interior
Details are sketchy but Ford claims that roominess has not been compromised despite a lower and sleeker shape.
The interior has been designed around the driver and the company says the new model meets the most stringent crash-test requirements around the world.
FAST FACTS
Ford Focus
Price: About £17,000
Mechanical: 115bhp, 1,560cc, 4 cylinder diesel engine driving the front wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 115mph
0-62mph: 10 seconds
Combined mpg: 65
Insurance group: 10
CO2 emissions: 120g/km
BIK rating: 10%
Warranty: 3 years/ 60,000 miles
Marks: 10/10
Main rival: VW Golf