08-08-2006, 02:11 AM
Ford Focus
The Ford Focus is a compact car/small family car made by the Ford Motor Company and sold in most Ford markets worldwide. It was launched in 1998 in Europe, and in 2000 in North America. Since then, it has become the most popular car in the United Kingdom, following in the success of the Escort, its predecessor. A new version of the Focus was launched in Europe in January 2005, while the United States received an updated version of the old model. In 2001 and 2002, Focus was the worldââ¬â¢s best selling car.
Mk 1 (1998 - present)
Following the launch of the critically acclaimed Mk 1 Mondeo in 1993 the dark memories of the Mk 4 Escort were consigned to history, but because of the Mondeo's excellence expectations for the Escort's replacement was high, and more so because nearly every European Ford launched after the Mk 1 Mondeo was now considered by motoring critics to be nothing short of excellent (the Ford Cougar being the exception). With Ford now setting such high standards Ford could not repeat the disastrous chapter of the Escort, especially as expectations for that car were equally high in 1990.
Design and engineering
Codenamed CW170 during its development, and briefly known to some Ford contractors as the Ford Fusion, the original Focus took its eventual name from a Ghia concept car which was shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 1991. Certain elements of the design had been seen even earlier in prototypes used by Ford to demonstrate forthcoming safety features such as the eye-level rear lighting clusters. Initial spy photographs of the car seen in 1995 took the world by storm at the design's apparent boldness - further developing Ford's "New Edge" styling philosophy first seen in the Ka in 1996 and Cougar in 1998. The daring styling made it largely unchanged when it entered production three years later.
The interior of the car was also radically styled, featuring many curves and sweeping lines. Although the design was clearly influenced by the more radical Ford Ka the interior design language was more akin to those of American cars, in the same way the Mk 1 Mondeo was.
As well as having radical styling, the Focus also introduced high specification components. Built on an all-new platform the car featured a highly sophisticated fully independent multi-link rear suspension (dubbed "Control Blade") which was derived from the Short-Long Arm system used on the Mk 1 Mondeo station wagon / estate and was intended to give the car class-leading handling and ride. Although fully independent multi-link rear suspension is extremely costly, and is the main reason why such a set-up was very rare, if not non-existent, in the class Ford managed to design and produce the suspension in an ingenious but cheap way by using pressed metal techniques. Until then other cars in the class, including the Focus' predecessor, featured torsion beam rear suspension.
When the North American versions were launched in 1999, initially as a 3dr hatchback, 4dr sedan and 5dr wagon (a 5-dr hatchback soon followed) the cars featured subtle, but notable, styling differences as follows:
1. The front and rear bumpers (larger and of a different design on the North American version)
2. The grille (of which the North American versions incorporated the indicators lights).
3. Front fenders (of which the European version featured a repeater light)
4. The rear lights (although the units themselves were the same shape minus the rear foglights, and amber signels).
5. The radio bezel (which the clock was intergraded into the stereo in North America)
Even though both versions were identical in other respects (unlike the Mondeo and Contour) these detailed differences meant that the Focus was categorised as being available in two distinct versions - North American and European.
Marketing
The North American version was only available in the US and Canada while the European version was available elsewhere around the world, including Mexico.
Furthermore, an all-new Mk 2 Focus was introduced in 2004 but is not available in North America. Instead, Ford is continuing with a heavily revised version of the Mk 1 Focus in the US and Canada (see 2004 Mk 1 below) while the European version of Mk 1 Focus is still manufactured and available in some other markets worldwide.
Unlike previous Fords in the North American market, the Pinto and the Escort, no luxury Mercury version is available.
In Australia, New Zealand, Japan and other countries in the region, it replaced the Laser, based on the Mazda 323 (called the Mazda Protege in some markets).
The American Ford Focus fits smallest into a line of sedans (smallest to largest) by Ford:
Ford Focus
Ford Fusion
Ford Taurus
Ford Five Hundred
Ford Crown Victoria
2001 Mk 1
In 2001 the European version of the Mk 1 Focus was subtly facelifted, receiving a new grille design, revised headlights (although still the same shape) and new front and rear bumpers. The interior was mildly revised, though the dashboard and switchgear remained the same. New features, such as xenon headlights, were also introduced on some versions. A new flexifuel engine, based on the European Zetec 1,6 version, which could use both petrol and bioethanol, was also introduced, but only on the Swedish market.
This version is still available in some countries despite the advent of an all-new Mk 2 Focus.
2004 Mk 1
While some countries either received the all new Mk 2 Focus or kept with the European version of the Mk 1 Focus, the North American Mk 1 was heavily facelifted in late 2004 for the 2005 model year. The car featured an all new front end forward of the windscreen, although the new grille and headlights made the car look outwardly similar to the Mk 2 Focus. The rear lights and boot lid of the saloon version was also heavily revised, while the rear bumpers were new on all body style variants. The interior was also heavily revised, featuring an all-new dashboard.
Ford apparently decided that a completely new car would not be profitable in this heavily price and incentive-driven market, while sales of the original Mk 1 began to slide in the US and Canada.
Critical opinion
The motoring press heavily praised the handling and ride of the Ford Focus, which was considered very much superior to its rivals (namely, the Mk2 Opel Astra/Mk 4 Vauxhall Astra and the Mk 4 Volkswagen Golf. The reviews also hailed the Focus' independent rear suspension, performance and accommodation. The interior design polarised opinion largely due to the curves and sweeping lines. The quality of the interior materials was criticised relative to the Mk 4 Volkswagen Golf.
Manufacturing
The Focus is produced by factories in: Saarlouis, Germany; Valencia, Spain; Pacheco, Argentina; and Wayne, Michigan in which the United States Knocked down] kits are supplied for assembly to Vsevolzhsk near Saint Petersburg, Russia. Some North American Focuses were built in Hermosillo, Mexico, before all post-2005 North American Focuses were built in Wayne, Michigan. The Hermosillo plant was then retooled to build the Ford Fusion.
Engines
The engines available were the well-proven 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Zetec units from the Mondeo/Contour family and 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre versions of the Zetec-SE units found in the Fiesta and Puma, with the Endura diesel (a development of the old Deutz-designed motor which Ford had been using since the 1980s), although the Duratorq unit replaced this in 2002. The SVT and ST170 used a 168 bhp (170 Ps) variable valve timing version of the 2.0 litre Zetec engine while the RS used a 212 bhp turbo version of the same engine, but without variable valve timing.
Engines (North American)
2.0 L CVH/SPI: 110 bhp/125 ft÷lbf torque. Standard in LX and SE model sedans through 2004.
2.0 L Zetec: 130 bhp/135 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on ZX3, ZX5, ZTS, and wagon models, and available in SE-model sedans through 2004.
2.0 L Zetec: 170 bhp/145 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on the SVT Focus.
2.3 L Duratec: 145 bhp/149 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on all cars sold in 2003 and 2004 in California, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, and Maine; optional in other US states.
2.0 L Duratec: 136 bhp/133 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on the (non-ST) 2005+ Focus.
2.3 L Duratec: 151 bhp/154 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on the 2005+ Focus ST.
Engines (European and other markets)
1.4 L Zetec-SE: 74 bhp; 42.8 mpg ; 106 mph top speed; 14.1s 0-60.
1.6 L Zetec-SE: 99 bhp; 40.9 mpg ; 115 mph top speed; 10.9s 0-60.
1.6 L Zetec: (Other Markets)
1.8 L Zetec: 113 bhp; 37.2 mpg ; 123 mph top speed; 10.2s 0-60. (All Markets)
1.8 L Endura-D diesel: 75 PS (56 kW) and 90 PS (67 kW) non-common-rail (TDi/TDdi)
1.8 L Duratorq diesel: 100 PS (75 kW) and 115 PS (86 kW) common rail (TDci)
2.0 L Zetec: 128 bhp; 33.1 mpg ; 125 mph top speed; 9.0s 0-60.
2.0 L Duratec: From 2004 onwards.
2.0 L Duratec: ST170 and SVT Only; 170 bhp; 25 mpg ; 133 mph top speed; 8.2s 0-60.
2.0 L Duratec: RS Only; 212 bhp; 19.9 mpg ; 144 mph top speed; 6.4s 0-60.
Transmissions
5-speed manual
6-speed Getrag manual (SVT / ST170)
4-speed automatic
Trim levels
Trim levels (North American)
The North American Focus received trim levels in:
LX, SE, ZTS, ZTW, SVT, and ZX3/ZX5 Premium editions.
Trim levels (European)
Standard
CL (1.4 petrol, 1.6 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 3/5-door hatchback, 5-door estate (only available in UK with 1.4)
LX (1.6 petrol, 1.8 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon, 5-door estate
Zetec (1.4 petrol, 1.6 petrol, 1.8 petrol, 2.0 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 3/5-door hatchback, 5-door estate
Ghia (1.6 petrol, 1.8 petrol, 2.0 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon, 2000+ 5-door estate.
ST170 (2.0 petrol), 5 door estate, 3/5-door hatchback
Special Editions:
Meillennium, MP3, Black, Chic, Ebony, Edge, Elle, Flight, Studio, Ink, Silver, Collection (available only in the UK) and RS (available in Europe Only)
Bodystyles
3-door hatchback
5-door hatchback (added for North America starting in 2002. Part of the original line in Europe)
4-door sedan (Not available in Japan or New Zealand)
4-door station wagon (Only available in Europe, Japan and North America)
In the US and Canada, the second generation Focus are coded with a 'ZXx' designation. ie ZX3, ZX4, ZX5, ZXW
Performance versions
SVT In 2001 the first performance version of the Mk 1 Focus was unveiled. Badged SVT, the car was only available in North America. The car featured unique front and rear fascias, rocker extensions, and 17" alloy wheels, though the rest of the car was outwardly identical to the standard North American Focus. Mechanically, the car featured quicker steering, stiffened suspension and a 6-speed manual gearbox while under the bonnet the SVT featured the 2.0 litre Zetec unit found in the standard Focus. However, the SVT's engine benefited from variable valve timing allowing it to produce 168 bhp (170Ps).
ST170 After the SVT's launch in 2001, a performance version of the European Focus was launched later that year. Badged ST170, the car was only available in some markets outside the US and Canada. The car featured a revised version of the standard 2001 Focus' bumper and 17" alloy wheels, though the rest of the car was outwardly identical to the standard European Focus. Mechanically the car was identical to the SVT, using the same steering, suspension and 168 bhp (170Ps) engine.
RS In 2002 the more bespoke engineered and performance orientated RS badge made a return to a Ford product following the demise of the Escort RS 2000. Simply badged RS the Focus was one of the most eagerly anticipated performance cars ever, and expectation was high due to the excellence of the standard Focus, but also due to the surprising disappointment of the SVT and ST170.
Using a Turbo Engine turbocharged version of the 2.0 litre Zetec engine, but without variable valve timing, the RS produced 212 bhp. Mechanically, the car was more removed from the standard Focus range than the SVT/ST170. Styling wise, the car featured a unique front bumper assembly (mainly necessitated by the need to channel air to the intercooler) and wider wheel arches and rear bumper to encompass the wider tracks. Mechanically, the car was uprated in all areas and far more bespoke than the SVT/ST170 and most notably incorporated a Quaife differential to make the car more direct, responsive and to control the power more ably as the RS was still front wheel drive. The steering was quicker while the brakes featured larger discs (which filled specially developed 18" alloy wheels).
Mk 2 (2004)
The all-new Mk 2 Ford Focus was launched in 2004 and was a task few manufacturers would have relished; to replace a car which was universally praised and set unprecedented new standards to a class. The Mk 1 was a rare car which dominated its class with such consummate ease and set new standards for rivals to follow. Indeed, it took the Mk 5 Volkswagen Golf to claim class best honours - 5 years after the Ford was launched.
The Focus was launched at the Paris Motor Show on September 23, 2004 as a three and five-door hatchback and a station wagon, although the Focus was truly previewed, in 4-door saloon form, as the 'Focus Concept' developed by Ford Australia at the Beijing Motor Show in mid-2004.
Marketing
Unlike the Mk 1 Focus the Mk 2 is not available in North America so there are no longer 2 distinct North American and European versions. Instead, Ford is continuing with the Mk 1 version in the US and Canada (see 2004 Mk 1 above) while the 2001 Mk 1 is still available in some other markets worldwide.
Design and engineering
The Mk 2, codenamed C307, uses a new platform called C1 which is shared with the Volvo S40, V50 and C70, Mazda3 and Focus C-Max. Ford calls this platform sharing programme Global Shared Technologies.
The basic suspension design, which contributed much to the Mk 1's dominance, has been carried over largely unchanged from its predecssor which, along with a 10% stiffer bodyshell, offers even better handling and ride according to Ford.
The same body styles as the Mk 1 Focus were offered, though the saloon did not appear until mid-2005.
The Focus Mk 2 is much larger than its predecessor with a 25 mm (1 in) increase in wheelbase, 168 mm (6.6 in) longer, 8 mm (0.3 in) taller and 138 mm (5.4 in) wider. As a result the interior and boot space has increased. New technologies include a KeyFree system, a solar-reflect windshield, adaptive front lighting, Bluetooth hands-free phones and voice control for audio, telephone and climate control systems.
It also features either a Durashift 6-speed manual, Durashift 4-speed automatic transmission or the all-new Durashift advanced manual transmission or just the standard manual.
Stylistically, the Mk 2's styling features the same design language found in the Mondeo and Fiesta. Although still recogniseable as a Focus the new car uses styling features from the abandoned B-Proposal for the original Focus which were never signed off for production.
The interior and dashboard follows on from the Mk 2 Mondeo's Germanic feel and is constructed from far higher quality plastics than before, and the overall feeling of solidity of the car has been increased markedly in a deliberate attempt to emulate the standards set by the Volkswagen Golf.
Engines
The engine line up for the Mk II is a mixture of old and new. Revised versions of the 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre all aluminium Zetec-SE engines from the previous generation Focus were carried over, although the units were now renamed Duratec (see next paragraph). The 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Zetec petrol engines of the original were dropped, with the 1.8 litre unit being replaced by an all-new 1.6 litre Duratec Ti-VCT engine with variable valve timing, while the 2.0 litre engine was replaced by the Mk 2 Mondeo's 2.0 litre Duratec engine.
It should be noted that Ford's 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Duratec engines are heavily revised versions of the old 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Zetec engines from the previous Focus and Mk I Mondeo and bear no relation to the 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre Duratec engines, the latter being revised versions of the Yamaha developed Zetec-SE engines.
The PSA-developed Duratorq diesel engine in 1.6 L 100 hp and 110 hp editions, Ford's own 'Lynx' Duratorq 1.8L 115 hp diesel carried over from the previous model and the PSA DW10 diesel in 2.0 L form rounds off the range in standard Focus guise (this is a different unit to the 'Puma' diesel in the Mondeo).
The new Focus ST, however, has a 2.5 litre 220 bhp 5 cylinder straight engine, derived from Volvo as used in the S40 T5. The Focus ST's engine uses a turbo and offers a healthy 236 lb ft torque peaking as low as 1,600 rpm.
Petrol
1.4 L Duratec
1.6 L Duratec
1.6 L Duratec Ti-VCT
2.0 L Duratec-HE
2.5 L Duratec-HE 5-cylinder
Diesel
1.6L (100 bhp and 110 bhp) Duratorq (PSA type)
1.8 L Duratorq (Ford "Lynx" type)
2.0 L Duratorq (PSA DW10)
Overview
Dynamically, the Focus is again held in high regard by the motoring press. Although they claim the latest generation Opel/Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf have much improved handling over their respective predecessors, they still were short of the all-round ability offered by the Mk 1 Focus. The Mk 2 Focus moves the game on, offering even better handling and ride and, as with its predecessor; it is regarded by critics as having the best chassis in its class. Although many journalists claim the BMW 1 Series offers marginally better handling, and the Volkswagen Golf a slightly better ride, they proclaim the Focus still offers the best handling/ride compromise, and is superior even over its Mazda and Volvo cousins who share the same platform and suspension.
Styling wise, like the Mk 2 Mondeo and Mk 3 Fiesta the Focus has been criticised by the motoring press for what some perceive as a lack of flair, originality and boldness compared to its predecessor's New Edge design although many critics do say the new model looks more classy and mature.
The interior design has not faced such harsh criticism with many journalists believing it represents a significant improvement through more sober 'German' styling and, more importantly, better quality plastics than the first generation design, although the general consensus from journalists is that the Focus' interior is still a notch down from the Mk 5 Volkswagen Golf (itself considered to be slightly down on the Mk 4 Golf).
Nonetheless, along with its more spacious interior, better refinement, more powerful but frugal and refined engines, and improved quality in many eyes the Mk 2 reclaimed the Focus' crown as best car in its class. However, unlike the daylight its predecessor enjoyed over its rivals at launch the gap between the Mk 2 Focus and the next best car in the class, considered to be the Mk 5 Volkswagen Golf, is small.
The new car has gained the best ever Euro NCAP ratings for its class, beating such contenders as the Renault Mégane and Volkswagen Golf.
The Focus Mk II is also built in South Africa for export to Australia and New Zealand but is not available in North America, Ford preferring to continue with a heavily revised version of the Mk I Focus.
Coupé-Cabriolet
The Focus Coupé-Cabriolet was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. Originally named the Vignale by designer Pininfarina, it was previewed at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show. It has a two-piece metal folding roof, and final assembly will be handled by Pininfarina, making it an exotic in a mainstream marque. Ford plans to sell about 20,000 annually in Europe, and initial reaction has been extremely positive.
Focus ST
In 2005 Ford unveiled a hot hatch version of the Mk 2 Focus. Called Focus ST, and available in either 3 or 5 door hatchback variant, the car uses the same powerplant from the Volvo S40/V50 T5, a turbocharged 2.5 L 5-cylinder engine capable of achieving 225 hp DIN (166 kW). The Ford Focus Mk 2 ST is also known as the XR5 Turbo in the Australian market - available only in 5 door hatchback variant.
Focus RS
Ford of Europe is currently develpoing an even more radical version of the Focus. The Mk 2 Focus RS will feature a turbocharged version of the ST's engine, with a maximum output estimated on 300+ bhp. Some spyshots show that the RS will probably have all wheel drive, which will help to control the power unlike the front wheel drive hot hatch Opel Astra OPC.
World Rally Championship
In 1999, Ford Motor Company revealed its first version for the World Rally Championship: the Focus WRC. Subsequent variants followed, piloted by such men as Colin McRae, Carlos Sainz, Markko Martin and Francois Duval. The next version of the Focus WRC hit the special stages on the 2005 Rally Australia with Toni Gardemeister and Roman Kresta, notching victory on its 'full' championship debut on the 2006 Monte Carlo Rally in the hands of Marcus Gronholm.
Overall sales and history
In Europe, the hatchback is the biggest selling body style. Ford attempted to market the sedan in Europe as a mini-executive car by only offering it in the Ghia trim level, something that it had tried before with the Orion of the 1980s. It has since given up on this strategy, and has started selling lower specified versions of the sedan.
Despite its radical styling (the hatchback version in particular), and some controversial safety recalls in North America, the car has been a runaway success across the globe, even in the United States, where Ford has traditionally failed to successfully sell its European models.
This was the best-selling car in the world in 2000 and 2001. It was elected Car of the Year in 1999. The Focus won the North American Car of the Year award for 2000. In Europe, the original had a very subtle facelift in 2001.
The Focus, unlike the Escort, was never offered in a panel van body style in the U.S. However a commercial focus is available in Europe.
Ford was therefore left without a light-duty commercial vehicle when the Escort finally went out of production in 2000. The purpose-designed Transit Connect, introduced in 2002, largely served as its replacement. A convertible version was another notable omission, although there is talk of producing a drop-top version of the Mk II for Europe.
Reliability
In the US spec models, despite a series of major recalls early in the car's life, reliability has steadily been improving. In fact, there have been no Focus recalls in the United States since 2002. The Focus now at Ford dealerships has Consumer Reports Best in Class rating for small cars. The car has also received a Consumers Digest Best Buy Rating, an award that takes numerous factors into consideration, including reliability and recall history.
The European Focus would also suffer from some recall issues, but in 2002, according to German reports and surveys, the Focus was claimed to be the most reliable car between 1 to 3 years old on the German car market. This was a remarkable feat as the Focus was competing against German prestige manufacturers as well as Japanese manufacturers, all of which have strong reputations for quality and reliability.
Awards
Since its launch in 1998 the Focus Mk I has won over 60 awards including 13 Car of the Year awards in both Europe and North America, and more recently, the best family car ever (Autocar UK 2003). The Focus was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for five consecutive years (2000 through 2004). In 2005, in a poll by the Men & Motors TV channel in the UK, it was placed 19th in the nation's favourite 100 cars of all time.
Auto Express in 2005 hailed the European Focus Mk II "Supreme Champion" in its New Car of the Year awards. The Focus also won the subcategory of Best Compact Family Car in the same awards.
The North American version has been a favorite of Car and Driver magazine, which has elected it to its Ten Best list every year since its introduction in 2000. Motor Trend magazine has also given the Focus favorable reviews, writing comments like "As entry-level sedans go, few can touch Ford's Focus on the fun-to-drive front."
Owners Clubs
FJ - Focaljet - http://www.focaljet.com
FO - Focus Owners - http://www.focusowners.com
FFOC - Ford Focus Owners Club - http://www.ffoc.co.uk
FC - Focus Canada - http://www.focuscanada.net
The Ford Focus is a compact car/small family car made by the Ford Motor Company and sold in most Ford markets worldwide. It was launched in 1998 in Europe, and in 2000 in North America. Since then, it has become the most popular car in the United Kingdom, following in the success of the Escort, its predecessor. A new version of the Focus was launched in Europe in January 2005, while the United States received an updated version of the old model. In 2001 and 2002, Focus was the worldââ¬â¢s best selling car.
Mk 1 (1998 - present)
Following the launch of the critically acclaimed Mk 1 Mondeo in 1993 the dark memories of the Mk 4 Escort were consigned to history, but because of the Mondeo's excellence expectations for the Escort's replacement was high, and more so because nearly every European Ford launched after the Mk 1 Mondeo was now considered by motoring critics to be nothing short of excellent (the Ford Cougar being the exception). With Ford now setting such high standards Ford could not repeat the disastrous chapter of the Escort, especially as expectations for that car were equally high in 1990.
Design and engineering
Codenamed CW170 during its development, and briefly known to some Ford contractors as the Ford Fusion, the original Focus took its eventual name from a Ghia concept car which was shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 1991. Certain elements of the design had been seen even earlier in prototypes used by Ford to demonstrate forthcoming safety features such as the eye-level rear lighting clusters. Initial spy photographs of the car seen in 1995 took the world by storm at the design's apparent boldness - further developing Ford's "New Edge" styling philosophy first seen in the Ka in 1996 and Cougar in 1998. The daring styling made it largely unchanged when it entered production three years later.
The interior of the car was also radically styled, featuring many curves and sweeping lines. Although the design was clearly influenced by the more radical Ford Ka the interior design language was more akin to those of American cars, in the same way the Mk 1 Mondeo was.
As well as having radical styling, the Focus also introduced high specification components. Built on an all-new platform the car featured a highly sophisticated fully independent multi-link rear suspension (dubbed "Control Blade") which was derived from the Short-Long Arm system used on the Mk 1 Mondeo station wagon / estate and was intended to give the car class-leading handling and ride. Although fully independent multi-link rear suspension is extremely costly, and is the main reason why such a set-up was very rare, if not non-existent, in the class Ford managed to design and produce the suspension in an ingenious but cheap way by using pressed metal techniques. Until then other cars in the class, including the Focus' predecessor, featured torsion beam rear suspension.
When the North American versions were launched in 1999, initially as a 3dr hatchback, 4dr sedan and 5dr wagon (a 5-dr hatchback soon followed) the cars featured subtle, but notable, styling differences as follows:
1. The front and rear bumpers (larger and of a different design on the North American version)
2. The grille (of which the North American versions incorporated the indicators lights).
3. Front fenders (of which the European version featured a repeater light)
4. The rear lights (although the units themselves were the same shape minus the rear foglights, and amber signels).
5. The radio bezel (which the clock was intergraded into the stereo in North America)
Even though both versions were identical in other respects (unlike the Mondeo and Contour) these detailed differences meant that the Focus was categorised as being available in two distinct versions - North American and European.
Marketing
The North American version was only available in the US and Canada while the European version was available elsewhere around the world, including Mexico.
Furthermore, an all-new Mk 2 Focus was introduced in 2004 but is not available in North America. Instead, Ford is continuing with a heavily revised version of the Mk 1 Focus in the US and Canada (see 2004 Mk 1 below) while the European version of Mk 1 Focus is still manufactured and available in some other markets worldwide.
Unlike previous Fords in the North American market, the Pinto and the Escort, no luxury Mercury version is available.
In Australia, New Zealand, Japan and other countries in the region, it replaced the Laser, based on the Mazda 323 (called the Mazda Protege in some markets).
The American Ford Focus fits smallest into a line of sedans (smallest to largest) by Ford:
Ford Focus
Ford Fusion
Ford Taurus
Ford Five Hundred
Ford Crown Victoria
2001 Mk 1
In 2001 the European version of the Mk 1 Focus was subtly facelifted, receiving a new grille design, revised headlights (although still the same shape) and new front and rear bumpers. The interior was mildly revised, though the dashboard and switchgear remained the same. New features, such as xenon headlights, were also introduced on some versions. A new flexifuel engine, based on the European Zetec 1,6 version, which could use both petrol and bioethanol, was also introduced, but only on the Swedish market.
This version is still available in some countries despite the advent of an all-new Mk 2 Focus.
2004 Mk 1
While some countries either received the all new Mk 2 Focus or kept with the European version of the Mk 1 Focus, the North American Mk 1 was heavily facelifted in late 2004 for the 2005 model year. The car featured an all new front end forward of the windscreen, although the new grille and headlights made the car look outwardly similar to the Mk 2 Focus. The rear lights and boot lid of the saloon version was also heavily revised, while the rear bumpers were new on all body style variants. The interior was also heavily revised, featuring an all-new dashboard.
Ford apparently decided that a completely new car would not be profitable in this heavily price and incentive-driven market, while sales of the original Mk 1 began to slide in the US and Canada.
Critical opinion
The motoring press heavily praised the handling and ride of the Ford Focus, which was considered very much superior to its rivals (namely, the Mk2 Opel Astra/Mk 4 Vauxhall Astra and the Mk 4 Volkswagen Golf. The reviews also hailed the Focus' independent rear suspension, performance and accommodation. The interior design polarised opinion largely due to the curves and sweeping lines. The quality of the interior materials was criticised relative to the Mk 4 Volkswagen Golf.
Manufacturing
The Focus is produced by factories in: Saarlouis, Germany; Valencia, Spain; Pacheco, Argentina; and Wayne, Michigan in which the United States Knocked down] kits are supplied for assembly to Vsevolzhsk near Saint Petersburg, Russia. Some North American Focuses were built in Hermosillo, Mexico, before all post-2005 North American Focuses were built in Wayne, Michigan. The Hermosillo plant was then retooled to build the Ford Fusion.
Engines
The engines available were the well-proven 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Zetec units from the Mondeo/Contour family and 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre versions of the Zetec-SE units found in the Fiesta and Puma, with the Endura diesel (a development of the old Deutz-designed motor which Ford had been using since the 1980s), although the Duratorq unit replaced this in 2002. The SVT and ST170 used a 168 bhp (170 Ps) variable valve timing version of the 2.0 litre Zetec engine while the RS used a 212 bhp turbo version of the same engine, but without variable valve timing.
Engines (North American)
2.0 L CVH/SPI: 110 bhp/125 ft÷lbf torque. Standard in LX and SE model sedans through 2004.
2.0 L Zetec: 130 bhp/135 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on ZX3, ZX5, ZTS, and wagon models, and available in SE-model sedans through 2004.
2.0 L Zetec: 170 bhp/145 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on the SVT Focus.
2.3 L Duratec: 145 bhp/149 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on all cars sold in 2003 and 2004 in California, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, and Maine; optional in other US states.
2.0 L Duratec: 136 bhp/133 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on the (non-ST) 2005+ Focus.
2.3 L Duratec: 151 bhp/154 ft÷lbf torque. Standard on the 2005+ Focus ST.
Engines (European and other markets)
1.4 L Zetec-SE: 74 bhp; 42.8 mpg ; 106 mph top speed; 14.1s 0-60.
1.6 L Zetec-SE: 99 bhp; 40.9 mpg ; 115 mph top speed; 10.9s 0-60.
1.6 L Zetec: (Other Markets)
1.8 L Zetec: 113 bhp; 37.2 mpg ; 123 mph top speed; 10.2s 0-60. (All Markets)
1.8 L Endura-D diesel: 75 PS (56 kW) and 90 PS (67 kW) non-common-rail (TDi/TDdi)
1.8 L Duratorq diesel: 100 PS (75 kW) and 115 PS (86 kW) common rail (TDci)
2.0 L Zetec: 128 bhp; 33.1 mpg ; 125 mph top speed; 9.0s 0-60.
2.0 L Duratec: From 2004 onwards.
2.0 L Duratec: ST170 and SVT Only; 170 bhp; 25 mpg ; 133 mph top speed; 8.2s 0-60.
2.0 L Duratec: RS Only; 212 bhp; 19.9 mpg ; 144 mph top speed; 6.4s 0-60.
Transmissions
5-speed manual
6-speed Getrag manual (SVT / ST170)
4-speed automatic
Trim levels
Trim levels (North American)
The North American Focus received trim levels in:
LX, SE, ZTS, ZTW, SVT, and ZX3/ZX5 Premium editions.
Trim levels (European)
Standard
CL (1.4 petrol, 1.6 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 3/5-door hatchback, 5-door estate (only available in UK with 1.4)
LX (1.6 petrol, 1.8 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon, 5-door estate
Zetec (1.4 petrol, 1.6 petrol, 1.8 petrol, 2.0 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 3/5-door hatchback, 5-door estate
Ghia (1.6 petrol, 1.8 petrol, 2.0 petrol, 1.8 turbodiesel), 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon, 2000+ 5-door estate.
ST170 (2.0 petrol), 5 door estate, 3/5-door hatchback
Special Editions:
Meillennium, MP3, Black, Chic, Ebony, Edge, Elle, Flight, Studio, Ink, Silver, Collection (available only in the UK) and RS (available in Europe Only)
Bodystyles
3-door hatchback
5-door hatchback (added for North America starting in 2002. Part of the original line in Europe)
4-door sedan (Not available in Japan or New Zealand)
4-door station wagon (Only available in Europe, Japan and North America)
In the US and Canada, the second generation Focus are coded with a 'ZXx' designation. ie ZX3, ZX4, ZX5, ZXW
Performance versions
SVT In 2001 the first performance version of the Mk 1 Focus was unveiled. Badged SVT, the car was only available in North America. The car featured unique front and rear fascias, rocker extensions, and 17" alloy wheels, though the rest of the car was outwardly identical to the standard North American Focus. Mechanically, the car featured quicker steering, stiffened suspension and a 6-speed manual gearbox while under the bonnet the SVT featured the 2.0 litre Zetec unit found in the standard Focus. However, the SVT's engine benefited from variable valve timing allowing it to produce 168 bhp (170Ps).
ST170 After the SVT's launch in 2001, a performance version of the European Focus was launched later that year. Badged ST170, the car was only available in some markets outside the US and Canada. The car featured a revised version of the standard 2001 Focus' bumper and 17" alloy wheels, though the rest of the car was outwardly identical to the standard European Focus. Mechanically the car was identical to the SVT, using the same steering, suspension and 168 bhp (170Ps) engine.
RS In 2002 the more bespoke engineered and performance orientated RS badge made a return to a Ford product following the demise of the Escort RS 2000. Simply badged RS the Focus was one of the most eagerly anticipated performance cars ever, and expectation was high due to the excellence of the standard Focus, but also due to the surprising disappointment of the SVT and ST170.
Using a Turbo Engine turbocharged version of the 2.0 litre Zetec engine, but without variable valve timing, the RS produced 212 bhp. Mechanically, the car was more removed from the standard Focus range than the SVT/ST170. Styling wise, the car featured a unique front bumper assembly (mainly necessitated by the need to channel air to the intercooler) and wider wheel arches and rear bumper to encompass the wider tracks. Mechanically, the car was uprated in all areas and far more bespoke than the SVT/ST170 and most notably incorporated a Quaife differential to make the car more direct, responsive and to control the power more ably as the RS was still front wheel drive. The steering was quicker while the brakes featured larger discs (which filled specially developed 18" alloy wheels).
Mk 2 (2004)
The all-new Mk 2 Ford Focus was launched in 2004 and was a task few manufacturers would have relished; to replace a car which was universally praised and set unprecedented new standards to a class. The Mk 1 was a rare car which dominated its class with such consummate ease and set new standards for rivals to follow. Indeed, it took the Mk 5 Volkswagen Golf to claim class best honours - 5 years after the Ford was launched.
The Focus was launched at the Paris Motor Show on September 23, 2004 as a three and five-door hatchback and a station wagon, although the Focus was truly previewed, in 4-door saloon form, as the 'Focus Concept' developed by Ford Australia at the Beijing Motor Show in mid-2004.
Marketing
Unlike the Mk 1 Focus the Mk 2 is not available in North America so there are no longer 2 distinct North American and European versions. Instead, Ford is continuing with the Mk 1 version in the US and Canada (see 2004 Mk 1 above) while the 2001 Mk 1 is still available in some other markets worldwide.
Design and engineering
The Mk 2, codenamed C307, uses a new platform called C1 which is shared with the Volvo S40, V50 and C70, Mazda3 and Focus C-Max. Ford calls this platform sharing programme Global Shared Technologies.
The basic suspension design, which contributed much to the Mk 1's dominance, has been carried over largely unchanged from its predecssor which, along with a 10% stiffer bodyshell, offers even better handling and ride according to Ford.
The same body styles as the Mk 1 Focus were offered, though the saloon did not appear until mid-2005.
The Focus Mk 2 is much larger than its predecessor with a 25 mm (1 in) increase in wheelbase, 168 mm (6.6 in) longer, 8 mm (0.3 in) taller and 138 mm (5.4 in) wider. As a result the interior and boot space has increased. New technologies include a KeyFree system, a solar-reflect windshield, adaptive front lighting, Bluetooth hands-free phones and voice control for audio, telephone and climate control systems.
It also features either a Durashift 6-speed manual, Durashift 4-speed automatic transmission or the all-new Durashift advanced manual transmission or just the standard manual.
Stylistically, the Mk 2's styling features the same design language found in the Mondeo and Fiesta. Although still recogniseable as a Focus the new car uses styling features from the abandoned B-Proposal for the original Focus which were never signed off for production.
The interior and dashboard follows on from the Mk 2 Mondeo's Germanic feel and is constructed from far higher quality plastics than before, and the overall feeling of solidity of the car has been increased markedly in a deliberate attempt to emulate the standards set by the Volkswagen Golf.
Engines
The engine line up for the Mk II is a mixture of old and new. Revised versions of the 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre all aluminium Zetec-SE engines from the previous generation Focus were carried over, although the units were now renamed Duratec (see next paragraph). The 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Zetec petrol engines of the original were dropped, with the 1.8 litre unit being replaced by an all-new 1.6 litre Duratec Ti-VCT engine with variable valve timing, while the 2.0 litre engine was replaced by the Mk 2 Mondeo's 2.0 litre Duratec engine.
It should be noted that Ford's 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Duratec engines are heavily revised versions of the old 1.8 litre and 2.0 litre Zetec engines from the previous Focus and Mk I Mondeo and bear no relation to the 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre Duratec engines, the latter being revised versions of the Yamaha developed Zetec-SE engines.
The PSA-developed Duratorq diesel engine in 1.6 L 100 hp and 110 hp editions, Ford's own 'Lynx' Duratorq 1.8L 115 hp diesel carried over from the previous model and the PSA DW10 diesel in 2.0 L form rounds off the range in standard Focus guise (this is a different unit to the 'Puma' diesel in the Mondeo).
The new Focus ST, however, has a 2.5 litre 220 bhp 5 cylinder straight engine, derived from Volvo as used in the S40 T5. The Focus ST's engine uses a turbo and offers a healthy 236 lb ft torque peaking as low as 1,600 rpm.
Petrol
1.4 L Duratec
1.6 L Duratec
1.6 L Duratec Ti-VCT
2.0 L Duratec-HE
2.5 L Duratec-HE 5-cylinder
Diesel
1.6L (100 bhp and 110 bhp) Duratorq (PSA type)
1.8 L Duratorq (Ford "Lynx" type)
2.0 L Duratorq (PSA DW10)
Overview
Dynamically, the Focus is again held in high regard by the motoring press. Although they claim the latest generation Opel/Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf have much improved handling over their respective predecessors, they still were short of the all-round ability offered by the Mk 1 Focus. The Mk 2 Focus moves the game on, offering even better handling and ride and, as with its predecessor; it is regarded by critics as having the best chassis in its class. Although many journalists claim the BMW 1 Series offers marginally better handling, and the Volkswagen Golf a slightly better ride, they proclaim the Focus still offers the best handling/ride compromise, and is superior even over its Mazda and Volvo cousins who share the same platform and suspension.
Styling wise, like the Mk 2 Mondeo and Mk 3 Fiesta the Focus has been criticised by the motoring press for what some perceive as a lack of flair, originality and boldness compared to its predecessor's New Edge design although many critics do say the new model looks more classy and mature.
The interior design has not faced such harsh criticism with many journalists believing it represents a significant improvement through more sober 'German' styling and, more importantly, better quality plastics than the first generation design, although the general consensus from journalists is that the Focus' interior is still a notch down from the Mk 5 Volkswagen Golf (itself considered to be slightly down on the Mk 4 Golf).
Nonetheless, along with its more spacious interior, better refinement, more powerful but frugal and refined engines, and improved quality in many eyes the Mk 2 reclaimed the Focus' crown as best car in its class. However, unlike the daylight its predecessor enjoyed over its rivals at launch the gap between the Mk 2 Focus and the next best car in the class, considered to be the Mk 5 Volkswagen Golf, is small.
The new car has gained the best ever Euro NCAP ratings for its class, beating such contenders as the Renault Mégane and Volkswagen Golf.
The Focus Mk II is also built in South Africa for export to Australia and New Zealand but is not available in North America, Ford preferring to continue with a heavily revised version of the Mk I Focus.
Coupé-Cabriolet
The Focus Coupé-Cabriolet was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. Originally named the Vignale by designer Pininfarina, it was previewed at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show. It has a two-piece metal folding roof, and final assembly will be handled by Pininfarina, making it an exotic in a mainstream marque. Ford plans to sell about 20,000 annually in Europe, and initial reaction has been extremely positive.
Focus ST
In 2005 Ford unveiled a hot hatch version of the Mk 2 Focus. Called Focus ST, and available in either 3 or 5 door hatchback variant, the car uses the same powerplant from the Volvo S40/V50 T5, a turbocharged 2.5 L 5-cylinder engine capable of achieving 225 hp DIN (166 kW). The Ford Focus Mk 2 ST is also known as the XR5 Turbo in the Australian market - available only in 5 door hatchback variant.
Focus RS
Ford of Europe is currently develpoing an even more radical version of the Focus. The Mk 2 Focus RS will feature a turbocharged version of the ST's engine, with a maximum output estimated on 300+ bhp. Some spyshots show that the RS will probably have all wheel drive, which will help to control the power unlike the front wheel drive hot hatch Opel Astra OPC.
World Rally Championship
In 1999, Ford Motor Company revealed its first version for the World Rally Championship: the Focus WRC. Subsequent variants followed, piloted by such men as Colin McRae, Carlos Sainz, Markko Martin and Francois Duval. The next version of the Focus WRC hit the special stages on the 2005 Rally Australia with Toni Gardemeister and Roman Kresta, notching victory on its 'full' championship debut on the 2006 Monte Carlo Rally in the hands of Marcus Gronholm.
Overall sales and history
In Europe, the hatchback is the biggest selling body style. Ford attempted to market the sedan in Europe as a mini-executive car by only offering it in the Ghia trim level, something that it had tried before with the Orion of the 1980s. It has since given up on this strategy, and has started selling lower specified versions of the sedan.
Despite its radical styling (the hatchback version in particular), and some controversial safety recalls in North America, the car has been a runaway success across the globe, even in the United States, where Ford has traditionally failed to successfully sell its European models.
This was the best-selling car in the world in 2000 and 2001. It was elected Car of the Year in 1999. The Focus won the North American Car of the Year award for 2000. In Europe, the original had a very subtle facelift in 2001.
The Focus, unlike the Escort, was never offered in a panel van body style in the U.S. However a commercial focus is available in Europe.
Ford was therefore left without a light-duty commercial vehicle when the Escort finally went out of production in 2000. The purpose-designed Transit Connect, introduced in 2002, largely served as its replacement. A convertible version was another notable omission, although there is talk of producing a drop-top version of the Mk II for Europe.
Reliability
In the US spec models, despite a series of major recalls early in the car's life, reliability has steadily been improving. In fact, there have been no Focus recalls in the United States since 2002. The Focus now at Ford dealerships has Consumer Reports Best in Class rating for small cars. The car has also received a Consumers Digest Best Buy Rating, an award that takes numerous factors into consideration, including reliability and recall history.
The European Focus would also suffer from some recall issues, but in 2002, according to German reports and surveys, the Focus was claimed to be the most reliable car between 1 to 3 years old on the German car market. This was a remarkable feat as the Focus was competing against German prestige manufacturers as well as Japanese manufacturers, all of which have strong reputations for quality and reliability.
Awards
Since its launch in 1998 the Focus Mk I has won over 60 awards including 13 Car of the Year awards in both Europe and North America, and more recently, the best family car ever (Autocar UK 2003). The Focus was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for five consecutive years (2000 through 2004). In 2005, in a poll by the Men & Motors TV channel in the UK, it was placed 19th in the nation's favourite 100 cars of all time.
Auto Express in 2005 hailed the European Focus Mk II "Supreme Champion" in its New Car of the Year awards. The Focus also won the subcategory of Best Compact Family Car in the same awards.
The North American version has been a favorite of Car and Driver magazine, which has elected it to its Ten Best list every year since its introduction in 2000. Motor Trend magazine has also given the Focus favorable reviews, writing comments like "As entry-level sedans go, few can touch Ford's Focus on the fun-to-drive front."
Owners Clubs
FJ - Focaljet - http://www.focaljet.com
FO - Focus Owners - http://www.focusowners.com
FFOC - Ford Focus Owners Club - http://www.ffoc.co.uk
FC - Focus Canada - http://www.focuscanada.net