Ford has used the Geneva show to extend its Focus line-up with the unveiling of the new Ford Focus Coupe Cabriolet. Joining the Focus Coupe-Cabriolet in Geneva is Ford’s all-new five-door Fiesta.
By Kelly Lodewyks
The front end of the new coupe-cabriolet features a three-dimensional bonnet and dual-trapezoidal grille. According to Ford, the interior features “high quality finishes and hard-wearing materials,” and a now more prominent instrument cluster with instruments illuminated in red.
There are various powerplants offered for powering this new Focus Coupe Cabrio, including 1,6-litre with 74 kW, a 2,0-litre with 107 kW, and a 2,0-litre diesel with 100 kW and 320 N.m of torque. A sport package with a retuned suspension, special 17” alloy wheels, and tinted headlights will be made available with this new model. Otherwise, the Focus CC will be available in the “Trend” specification. The top-of-the-range “Titanium” series will have extra details such as more interior features like partial leather seats and, as an option, full leather seats in three different designs.
New Features in the Focus CC includes a ‘Ford Power’ button for keyless start, optional Tyre Deflation Detection System, audio connectivity module for external devices and new levels of Bluetooth ® and USB connectivity, voice control and navigation systems, and a DVD based system with 7″ colour touch screen.
Safety features include ESP, ABS, EBA, and standard front and side airbags. Ford’s new Rollover Protection Device is also featured on this model. This device has electronic sensors and a gyroscope that. According to Ford, can “detect an impending rollover”. Should a rollover occur, “two ultra-strong safety roll bars ‘fire’ into position within a tenth of a second. Combined with the reinforced A-pillars and the highly rigid front window frame, RPD is a reassuring device that provides valuable extra protection for occupants.”
Ford recently unveiled its new three-door Fiesta, and has now unveiled the five-door version of its “Verve”-based supermini in Geneva. The dimensions of both vehicles are the same, as well as the striking trapezoidal grille, angular headlights, and steeply raked windscreen.
Powerplants in both three- and five-door versions include both a petrol and diesel powerplant, with the entry-level unit being a 1,4-litre petrol developing 45 kW. This unit will be followed by an 85 kW 1,6-litre powerplant, while diesel power will be provided in the form of two 1,25-litre variants, with outputs of 45 and 60 kW respectively. The powerplants can be mated with a six-speed manual transmission or the company’s new Durashift automatic transmission. Hydraulic power steering makes way for Ford’s EPAS electronic steering system, which the company claims will offer a good balance between low-speed assistance and feel.
The new Fiesta will reach SA by the end of 2008.
