All-New Ford Focus Revealed

The Ford Focus, one of the country’s favorite hatchbacks, has been renewed to coincide with the model's 20th anniversary. Dubbed as "the most accomplished and technically-competent Focus ever," the new fourth-generation hatchback boasts a sharper design, updated tech and toys, and more trim options.

The latest Focus is a result of a closer collaboration with customers than ever before. By listening to what customers have to say, Ford built the 2018 Focus from the ground up to provide the most inspiring, intuitive, and rewarding experience for both driver and occupants.

Design

Give the nose a glance and you'll be forgiven for thinking it's just the same Focus you've come to know. But stare harder and you'll realize that Ford was right to call this the first of the fourth generation. The differences become even more obvious as you go around the vehicle. Proportionally, this new iteration reflects a more premium, performance-centric silhouette, while at the same time offering a larger and more comfortable interior.

The A-pillars are now moved a few inches to the rear, giving the Focus a more balanced proportion. Meanwhile, the C-pillar now rests squarely above the rear wheels. The moving of the pillars allows for a longer hood and better flowing front fender. The wheelbase receives a 53-millimeter extension, allowing for a larger tire diameter and shorter overhang. The side metal looks cleaner and sleeker than what came before.

At the rear, the Focus badge is now spaced out on the bootlid. The tail lamps are now two-piece, allowing a more versatile deck-lid opening.

Performance

Engine-wise, the original 1.0-liter EcoBoost is still available, with the added option of a new 1.5-liter EcoBoost gasoline that comes in 148 hp and 180 hp versions. New EcoBlue diesel engines are also on offer--one, a 1.5-liter that comes in 94 hp and 118 hp guises, and the other, a powerful 2.0-liter that delivers 148 hp. The new gearbox will be optional in the 1.0-liter/123 hp and 1.5-liter/148 hp trims, as well as the 118 hp 1.5- and 2.0-liter diesels.

Tech

The fourth-gen Focus introduces a wide array of new advanced features, including the complex Ford Co-Pilot 360 system containing ACC with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition, and Lane-Centering technologies and designed to enhance safety and improve driving and parking comfort. Meanwhile, Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System with Predictive curve light and Sign-based light gives the Focus the ability to pre-adjust headlamp patterns for maximum visibility before the car reaches a curve, junction or roundabout. Other driver aids include Blind Spot monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert and Wrong Way Alert, Evasive Steering Assist, inflatable seatbelts, Post-Collision Braking, and updated versions of Active Park Assist and Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection.

Apple and Android devices can stay connected via Ford's latest SYNC 3 infotainment system with eight-inch screen. There's also the new FordPass Connect app that makes the Focus a WiFi hotspot for up to 10 devices. When you download the FordPass app, you can locate, lock, and unlock your car, even start it remotely. In case your mobile runs out of juice, you can charge it wirelessly with the new wireless phone charging feature.

A palette of 13 exterior colors options include Orange Glow, Desert Island Blue and Dark Mulberry.