2012 Ford Focus – Automobiles Review

Ford Focus ST Debut at Beijing 2012

Ford Focus ST (2012) We all know the Focus ST, right? It’s not that every market offers it but with the pace Ford has taken up, that problem would soon be a thing of the past. The latest debut for the ST would be the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. Soon, this stunning hothatch will be a reality on the Chinese streets.

“The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers the opportunity to see it Beijing,” said Nigel Harris, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford Motor China. “The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance.”

So, no compromises. Simply pure and exhilarating performance, top of the line handling, growling sounds and an aggressive design – true ST experience. Ford are hoping that by the end of 2012, their latest Focus model range will be available to all global markets. A 250 hp rated, 2.0 EcoBoost engine is to delight anyone in the world, who would fancy some blistering performance and eardrum bursting sounds.

“The Focus ST will be a serious driving machine, and our design and engineering teams have developed a purposeful exterior combined with a cockpit that blends sporting function with impressive comfort,” said Harris.

April 10, 2012

Ford Focus Debuts at 2012 Bangkok International Motor Show

The all-new 2012 Ford Focus will make its first ASEAN appearance at Bangkok International Motor Show. The launch of the vehicle on this market is of utmost importance because it is set to make a new standard there. It is going to deliver unmatched combination of smart technologies, outstanding fuel economy, expressive design, responsive performance and high levels of craftsmanship and occupant safety. The 2012 Ford Focus will go on sale later in the year and will be produced at Ford’s new manufacturing facility in Rayong. Its production there will supply the entire ASEAN region as well as other export markets.

The all-new Focus will include the new high-series Titanium+ and Sport+ variants, which offer luxury levels of convenience and comfort. The Candy Red five-door hatchback and the Ingot Silver four-door sedan on the Ford stand will give customers a close-up look at this top-notch series. The vehicle is characterized by sleek and sporty design, new smart technologies and features. These exceptional technologies will offer customers an exciting spread of advanced features generally found only in larger, more expensive vehicles. First to be mentioned is the Ford SYNC® technology which provides hands-free, voice-activated in-car connectivity. The system allows customers to connect almost any mobile phone or digital media player to their all-new Focus via Bluetooth^® and USB connection respectively. Moreover, the all-new 2012 Ford Focus also offers a wide range of smart features, such as Active Park Assist (the system uses sensors around the Focus to help identify a feasible spot then steer the car into the space; the driver controls the accelerator, brake and gears); Active City Stop (collision-mitigation system, which monitors the road ahead for stationary traffic and then brakes automatically if its sensors detect the car in front has stopped unexpectedly); Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) (when a vehicle enters the all-new Focus’ blind spot, an orange light appears in the corresponding side mirror as a caution; when backing out of a parking spot with limited visibility, BLIS warns the driver of impending traffic); Smart Keyless Entry (enables customer to lock or unlock the driver’s door without taking the key out of a bag or a pocket); Ford Power Start (the engine can be turned on simply by pushing the Ford Power Start button while holding the clutch down). In addition to all this, the Focus comes with dual-zone electronic air-conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, cruise control, powered sunroof and an innovative auto-dimming rear view mirror that automatically detects headlight glare and switches to a dimmed setting.

What has to be highlighted here as well is that the new Focus features a completely new Duratec 2.0-litre Ti-VCT GDi engine. The latter combines high-pressure gasoline direct injection (GDi) and twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. It delivers 170PS (125 hp) of power and 200Nm (147 lb.-ft.) of torque and improved fuel economy. This 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is mated with the latest six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission, which has a high-efficiency dual dry-clutch design. This advanced transmission is also offered with SelectShift Automatic™ functionality. A second powertrain comes in the form of a Duratec 1.6-litre Ti-VCT engine that serves up 125PS (92 kW) of power and 159Nm (177 lb.-ft.) of torque at excellent fuel efficiency. Again the engine can be mated to either the six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission.

Both the all-new Focus four-door sedan and five-door hatchback models has the same sporty character. They have striking front end, sleek profile, dramatic rising beltline and athletic stance. The exterior of the vehicle is influenced by the distinctive design inside, featuring a modern, cockpit-style interior with a stylish centre console. First of all it is bold and contemporary, and in addition the materials used are high-quality ones. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels have been minimized and the driving dynamics improved by the increased stiffness of the body structure. All this results in optimal riding quality. The chassis design is complemented by a new electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system which has been carefully tuned to deliver precise response at highway speeds while remaining light and manoeuvrable at lower speeds for ease of parking.

Furthermore, the 2012 Focus, offers outstanding safety standards for occupant and pedestrian protection. The used advanced materials help Focus meet crash regulations across world markets. In addition, they help minimizing the vehicle’s weight and contributing to fuel economy. Moreover, the passive safety features include new advanced airbag restraint systems. It features driver and front passenger airbags, side front airbags and segment-exclusive side curtain airbags for front- and rear-seat occupants. Additionally, there is also included an advanced active safety technologies, which help the driver maintain safe control of the vehicle and avoid collision situations. Next, the Electronic Stability Program system utilizes intelligent logic to monitor the car’s progress and apply effective intervention when required. The system incorporates Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Launch Assist and Anti-Lock Brake System which includes Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

Source: Ford

March 26, 2012

2012 Ford Focus with 1.0-liter EcoBoost Engine

The Ford Focus with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine production is already being launched. The highlight here is that this model is Ford’s most fuel efficient petrol-powered vehicle. In details, the Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost 100PS (74 kW) has the unique fuel economy of 4.8l/100km (58.9mpg); and more importantly the CO2 emissions it releases are 109g/km. In addition there is also a turbocharged direct injection engine available for the Focus in a 125PS (92 kW) version that has in turn 5l/100km (56.5mpg) with CO2 of 114g/km.

The Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost achieves diesel engine standards of performance thanks to the engine torque of 170Nm between (125 lb-ft) 1,400rpm and 4,500rpm. The new 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine is produced at Ford’s engine plant in Cologne, Germany. More importantly, Ford invested €134 million ($200 million) in the development of this special high-tech line at the Cologne Engine Plant to build the engine.

This engine is a true example of the demands of the market for improved internal combustion engine, which delivers low consumption and has low Co2 emissions. For the development of the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, Ford gathered experts from Europe, including engineers at

Ford’s European Research and Advanced Engineering Centre in Aachen, Germany, and the Dunton Technical Centre, UK.

Production of Ford Focus 1.0-liter EcoBoost Engine

Source: Ford

February 2, 2012

2012 Ford Focus Zetec S 2.0 TDCi [video]

Here is the 90 second verdict of the new 2012 Ford Focus Zetec S 2.0 TDCi from Autocar.co.uk.

There is two versions of the Zetec S – one with a 1.6 liter EcoBoost and the second, which is shown in the video with a 2.0 liter TDCi diesel power unit. It delivers 161PS (118 kW) at 3750RPM and 340Nm (251 lb-ft) at 3250RPM. From 0 to 62 mph in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 217 km/h (135 mph).

The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and returns a nice 56.5 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of just 129 g/km of CO2. The curb weight is 1412 kg.

The price for this pleasure is £21 345, which is a lot compared to the petrol variant for only £18 745.

“Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit.”, commented Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director.

Is the new Zetec S diesel any good? Check out the video, below!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLBwGlLABuE

Source: Autocar.co.uk via Youtube

January 16, 2012

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car Price – $98 995

Here is a nice offer – 2012 Ford Focus for $98 995. Is it impossible to spend all that money to tune a 2012 Ford Focus ST? Actually, the answer is yes, you can. If you check the full specifications below, you’ll get the idea, why the new Ford Focus ST-R Race Car is so expensive.

The vehicle is specially developed to comply with FIA regulations and it will take place at the Grand-Am ST, World Challenge TC and Canadian Touring Car Series.

The Focus ST-R is currently available for order and deliveries are scheduled to begin late next year.

There is no performance data, but the 2.0 liter turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine will deliver a serious amount of power. The factory power is 250PS (184 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Ford Focus ST-R features a FIA-compliant roll cage, an LSD (limited slip differential), stripped interior with one Recaro front seat, racing steering wheel, racing instrument panel, start console and 18” BBS light alloy wheels fitted with Hoosier racing tires.

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car - Front Angle

2012 Ford Focus ST-R Race Car

Powertrain

Ford Racing custom exhaust
Ford Racing engine calibration
Ford Racing high capacity radiator
Ford Racing clutch
Ford Racing oil to air oil cooler
Remote oil filter
6-speed manual transmission with Ford Racing limited-slip differential

Chassis

Seam-welded steel unibody with integrated FIA certified safety cage.
Structural perofrmance: over 20,000 lb.-ft/degree (torsional)

Front Suspension

AST performance coilover adjustable dampers
Adjustable camber plates
Ford Racing upgraded sway bar with adjustable end links
Upgraded bushings

Rear Suspension

AST performance adjustable dampers
Control-blade multilink rear suspension
Ford Racing upgraded sway bars with adjustable end links
Upgraded bushings

Brakes

Front brakes 320 mm with 2-piece rotors and race pads
Production rear brakes with race pads
Ford ABS with unique Ford Racing calibration

Wheels & Tires

18″ BBS CF 1 piece cast alloy wheel (Anthracite)
Hoosier 225/40-18 R6 race tires

Fuel System

ATL 18 gallon fuel cell with custom single dry break system

Exterior

2012 Focus ST body kit
Brake cooling ducts
Hood pins

Interior

Ford Racing lightweight wiring harnesses
Recaro Pro Racer HANS racing Seat
AIM MXL Pista GPS based data system
Ford Racing short throw shifter
Ford Racing fire suppression system
Ford Racing 6-point safety harness
Ford Racing driver safety nets
Ford Racing steering wheel with quick release
Custom carbon fiber center panel with switches

Source: Ford via Car & Driver

December 14, 2011

2012 Ford Focus Electric Price – $39 200

Ford has announced the new 2012 Focus Electric, which now can be ordered for $39 200 not including deliver charge of $795 and a federal income tax credit of $7 500.

“Today is an historic day, as Ford opens up the order banks for the company’s first full production, all-electric passenger vehicle – the Focus Electric,” said Chad D’Arcy, Focus Electric Marketing Manager, Ford Motor Company.

“The all-new Focus Electric is an important part of Ford’s overall strategy, bringing still another option to customers who want a car that is fun-to-drive, easy to own and fully electric.”, he added.

Focus Electric comes standard with: MyFord Touch with 8” touchscreen; two driver-configurable 4.2” color LCD displays in cluster for unique EV driving screens; MyFord^TM Mobile App – for remotely monitoring and scheduling battery charging with owners’ smartphone as well as remote start; HID Headlamps; 17” aluminum wheels, ambient lighting, seats made from 100-percent recycled material; Rear Camera with Rear Parking Sensor; Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start; MyKey®; voice-activated Navigation System; Particulate Air Filter; hands-free SYNC® Bluetooth telephone connectivity with Traffic, Direction and Information Services; electronic traction control; Sony®-Branded audio with nine speakers; SIRIUS® Satellite Radio and HD Radio^TM.

The only options on well-equipped Focus Electrics are leather seats and two paint colors.

A limited number of Focus Electrics will first be available in California and the New York/New Jersey regions. Availability of the Focus Electric will expand next year to the remaining 15 launch markets as production ramps up.

The 19 launch markets include: Atlanta, Austin and Houston, Texas; Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, New York, Orlando, Fla., Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz.; Portland, Ore.; Raleigh Durham, N.C.; Richmond, Va., Seattle, and Washington, D.C.

Source: Ford

November 3, 2011

Roush Ford Focus Performance

Another tuned 2012 Ford Focus will be exhibited at the 2011 SEMA Show. Roush Performance Products will introduce the vehicle to the audience between November 1^st and 4^th in Las Vegas.

Roush Ford Focus Performance comes with complete body kit and some engine modifications, which will boost the 2.0 liter petrol engine under the hood.

The body kit includes a new front bumper with enormous air intake, new front grille and new front hood. There are also a chin splitter, new side skirts and exterior graphics.

To complete the exterior look, Rousch added new alloy wheels finished in black paint.

The performance mods include a new Roush R900 TVS supercharger, modified high-flow air induction system and dual high performance exhaust system. All these upgrades will power the 2.0 liter Ti-VCT four-cylinder petrol engine, which originally produces 160PS (118 kW) at 6500RPM and 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque at 4450RPM. There are no further data, but we expect more than 250PS from the tuned engine.

Source: Roush

October 24, 2011

3dCarbon Ford Focus

3dCarbon will exhibit a specially prepared 2012 Ford Focus at this year’s SEMA.

The car will feature a complete body kit consisting of a new front spoiler, a pair of side skirts, a new roof spoiler and lowered suspension by Eibach spring set. The car stands on nice BBS wheels fitted with performance tires by Pirelli. The alloy wheels are finished in red to match the other accents. There will be also a 3M wrap and tinted windows.

The top-of-range 2012 Focus ST is powered by a 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine with 250PS (184 kW) and 360Nm (267 lb-ft) of torque. It is definitely a nice match to 3dCarbon look.

However, a base version of 2012 Focus is priced from $18 200, which is not bad at all and, if you need more styling, 3dCarbon will provide it.

Source: 3dCarbon

October 24, 2011

2012 Ford Focus ST 5-door and Wagon

Ford has finally revealed official details about 2012 Focus ST both 5-door and Wagon version. The stylish sports hatchback is revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Both models will hit the European market in 2012.

Focus ST is one of the most successful performance vehicles of the company. With innovative design and technology throughout, the new Focus ST will be more powerful and surprisingly fuel efficient, raising the bar once again when it comes to handling too.

“The new Focus ST is a really exciting car for Ford,” said Jost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles.

“It’s the first performance model to build upon the design and technology strengths of one of our new global production vehicles. It’s a car built for driving enthusiasts all around the world and they will not be disappointed.”, he added.

2012 Focus ST is powered by a 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine with 250PS (184 kW) and 360Nm (267 lb-ft) of torque. The new engine replaces the brilliant 2.5 liter 5-cylinder power plant. The EcoBoost 2.0 in the Focus ST is expected to cut both CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption by more than 20% from the previous-generation European model when fuel consumption data is certified.

The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, which has specially revised gearing to produce the maximum punch from each throw of the gear shift.

“This is the first time we have used a 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model and the results are phenomenal,” said Capito.

“Drivers will have a lot of power and torque throughout the rev range to use. For everyday driving, though, the characteristics of this car will let them drive in a more fuel efficient way than previously, which is an essential part of the ST’s DNA.”, he finished.

Source: Ford

September 12, 2011

2012 Ford Focus refined by Loder1899

Loder1899 has unveiled a new tuning package for the latest 2012 Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi, so now the hatchback is not only a bland car with economic engine, but a fashionable vehicle with real style.

The German tuner offers both – performance and styling package. The 2.0 liter diesel engine is boosted to 195PS (143 kW) and 395Nm (291 lb-ft) of torque, instead of the factory’s 140PS (103 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft).

The exterior tuning consists of stainless-steel dual sport exhaust system as well as full body kit, which is also available in carbon fiber as an option. Furthermore, the stance of the hot hatch is lowered with 35mm and big wheels are added – 18”, 19” and 20” in different designs.

Finally, Loder1899 offers LED daytime running lights and carbon covers for the headlights.

The prices start at €27 695, including the car, of course.

Loder1899 2012 Ford Focus

Source: Loder1899

June 1, 2011

2012 Ford Focus UK sales

According to the latest research by Ford Britain, the newly premiered 2012 Focus is expected to continue the successful story of the UK’s favorite ride, the Ford Focus. (more…)

March 15, 2011

2012 Ford Focus Special Editions – Personalization, FSWerks and 3dCarbon

Besides the the new race car concept, Ford also presented at this year’s LA auto show three aftermarket, 2012 Ford Focus Special Edition models.

The first is developed by Ford Vehicle Personalization, the second comes from FSWerks and the third is 3dCarbon.

Hopefully, the three specially developed models will be more tempting for the more demanding customers.

The 2012 Ford Focus Special Edition models showcase various upgrades, from alloy wheels and trick exterior pain schemes, to various performance upgrades and aerodynamic enhancements. (more…)

November 17, 2010

Tag: 2012 Ford Focus