2023 Ford Focus Facelift Surfaces In China, Looks Slightly Different Than Euro Model

After unveiling the facelifted Focus in Europe last October, Ford is getting ready for a similar update for the Chinese-spec model that will be produced by the Blue Oval’s Changan joint venture. Photos of the upcoming Focus appeared on the website of the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, showing a slightly different design than its European counterpart.

While most of the body panels and the lighting units are identical to the EU-spec Focus, the Chinese version gets a redesigned front bumper with a larger dark-finished grille reminiscent of the Evos and the Mondeo. The bumper intakes of the ST Line model look very similar to the European variant while there is also another trim called “S Edition” with smaller but equally sporty intakes. At the back, changes are limited to a redesigned rear apron with fake vents.

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The Chinese-spec Ford Focus ST Line hatchback versus the recently facelifted EU-spec model (bottom)

In terms of dimensions, the hatchback measures 4,401 mm (173.3 inches) long, while the sedan is 4,664 mm (183.6 inches) long, with both bodystyle variants retaining the same 2,705 mm (106.5 inches) wheelbase. We don’t have photos of the cabin but we expect the Focus to inherit the optional 13.2-inch central touchscreen, combined with a digital instrument cluster. To be precise, the Chinese-spec model already had a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a few differences in the design of the center console.

The current Focus range in China is fitted with a turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine, but that is expected to change this year according to local media. They suggest that the model will inherit a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine hoping to regain popularity with the Chinese buyers who were affected by the number of cylinders.

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The original fourth-generation Ford Focus sedan (up) and the 2020 facelift (bottom) compared to the more extensive update for 2022 (below).

The fourth-generation Ford Focus was introduced in 2018 as a global model. In China, it was available in hatchback, station wagon, and sedan forms, selling alongside the similarly-sized Ford Escort sedan. In 2020, Ford unveiled a facelifted Focus in China, although some trims retained the pre-facelifted model’s styling.

This year, the automaker will unveil the second and more extensive update for the entire Focus family hoping to reverse the declining sales. Rivals of the Focus sedan in China include the Honda Civic / Integra, the VW Lavida / Lamando, and the Toyota Corolla / Levin.