When Ford’s new Focus arrived on these shores several years ago, many felt that it was the first great product from that company since the mingling of genes with Mazda started a few decades ago. Now, with the arrival of a pair of new derivatives, the true-blue Focus should sell in the volumes it deserves.
Solidly built, lively enough and fun to drive, the Focus deserved to do well, but the fact that it was available only with a 96 kW two litre engine limited its appeal to many buyers.
That’s been taken care of now, with the introduction of a further two engines. Buyers can choose between 1,6 litre Sigma, two-litre Zetec E and two-litre Duratec ST powerplants, delivering 74, 96 and 126 kW respectively. The 1,6- and two-litre Zetec models are available in four and five-door hatch and saloon versions, while the sporty ST170 hatch comes in three-door guise. The two less powerful engines are mated with five-speed manual transmissions, while the ST utilises a six-speed manual gearbox.
Pricing ranges from R149 960 for the 1,6 litre Ambiente to R211 330 for the ST 170, and a three-year/100 000 km warranty is part of the deal. Also included in the price are Ford’s five-year/ 60 000 km Ford Protect Maintenance Plan and a new three-year unlimited-kilometre Roadside Assistance package.