Ford is letting the Press get a first taste of the all-new 2019 Focus, and the first feedback is pretty much positive.
The fourth generation of the Focus has grown in size but not in weight, aiming to correct one of its predecessor’s biggest flaws with a roomy cabin that offers class-leading comfort for the rear passengers.
In addition, the dashboard is more ergonomic than ever, featuring good quality plastics, a modern infotainment system in the form of the SYNC3 and a cleaner look. Tech features are plenty and include everything from active cruise control with lane keep assist to automatic parking, where the driver lets the car park itself.
More expensive models can be specified with an adaptive suspension that features Ford’s pothole detection system, which senses when a wheel is about to hit a pothole and adjusts the suspension travel accordingly, thus improving ride comfort even on badly-surfaced roads.
The engine range includes both petrol and diesel units, while customers will be offered the choice between a six-speed manual or a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Petrol models include the 1.0-liter EcoBoost in 85 PS (83 HP), 100 PS (98 HP) and 125 PS (123 HP) guises and the 1.5-liter EcoBoost with either 150 PS (148 HP) or 182 PS (179 HP).
Diesel models get a 1.5-liter EcoBlue unit with either 95 PS (93 HP) or 120 PS (118 HP) and a 2.0-liter EcoBlue engine with 150 PS (148 HP) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque.
Ford has been constantly delivering the best handling in class with the Focus, so the new model has to fill some rather big shoes. Is it capable of challenging the best in its segment and still offer a fun-to-drive character? Let’s see what Carwow has to say about that.