Ford Focus Econetic joining 2012 diesel range

Ford is one of the leading global carmakers who were struck hard by recession, forcing them to exercise business process reengineering and adopt new business strategies. Consequently, the car manufacturer who used to produce nothing more than some fuel hogging, unreliable metal crap now manufacture cars that make the leading players sweat hard – that is the tale of the American Ford. The Blue Oval exists in the European region with an entirely different face, boasting a lineup with such commendable levels of quality and reliability that has always put the Americans in infinite envy. Except for the damage caused by the reputation of the products from American Ford, the Europeans have actually been doing quite well in most markets. Ford Europe was definitely not hibernating as can be seen from their latest answer to fuel efficiency -– the Ford Focus Econetic.

The Focus Econetic is no hi-fi next-generation hybrid vehicle built using space technology. Instead it is a less-costlier regular non-hybrid compact hatchback powered by a 103 hp 1.6-litre turbocharged Duratorq diesel engine mated to a 6-speed Durashift manual transmission. Enhanced with a new variable geometry turbocharger design and friction reduction technologies, and armed with full range of Ford’s Econetic electronic aids such as Ford Auto-start-stop, Smart Regenerative Charging, Ford Eco Mode and Shift Indicator Lights, the Focus Econetic poses serious competition to the costlier, more complex and not-so-popular hybrids, because according to Ford Europe, the Focus Econetic achieves 3.5 litres/100 km of fuel consumption. The Focus Econetic is also expected to deliver ultra-low CO2 emissions with the help of some features which have been exclusively developed for this model including a unique aerodynamic package with an Active Grille Shutter, ultra-low rolling resistance tyres and a revised final drive ratio.

The Focus Econetic has made its debut at the ongoing Amsterdam International Motor Show. While it is apparent that the Focus Econetic shall never see the shores of the GCC, it will be produced at Ford’s manufacturing facility in Germany and shall go on sale early next year.

Keep track of the UAE launch of the new model in the Ford Focus buyer guide.