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authors:
Bogdan Alecu
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Driving test
Ford Focus surprised the compact class in 1998, when the first generation was launched. It was by far the most avant-garde model of the segment at that time, and the "Edge" line of the late '90s completely revitalized the sharp lines of the American manufacturer, an interior like no one else. had never seen and practical solutions such as stopping the upper body to prevent them from being damaged in case of minor shock – at a time when few cars had parking sensors
The time has passed and Focus has reached the fourth generation. If the transition from Mk2 to Mk3 (in the case of the Ford generations called "Mark") has brought a real leap, especially in terms of technology, the Mk4 again brings a significant improvement. But this time, the new Focus also offers a much larger interior, a slightly larger hatchback compartment and a significantly larger compartment for the hatchback version.
Moreover, unlike previous generations, Mk4 is a continuous market. transformation, where customers move away from traditional "models" and segments and migrate more and more to SUVs and crossovers. In the case of Americans, the decision was simple and follows the strategy put in place last year on Fiesta – who wants classic, opts for Trend; classic but better equipped – Titanium; sporty and dynamic character – ST Line; a quality and sophistication that rival the high-end segment – Vignale and finally – Active – a raised body, side wheels on the wings and a cross-image to attract customers who want a "different" car. In addition, with the help of systems such as CCD (Continuously Controlled Damping) and driving modes, as well as an increased stiffness of 20% and an "independent" rear suspension, the Focus puts the # Focus on driving dynamics and comfort. The CCD suspension in addition to the three modes also includes comfort and eco-comfort, and there are always two ways for Focus Active – Sliding – for low-grip surfaces such as snow and ice, and Trail , for when it goes on a soft and deformable surface like mountain trails.
At the international test, we tested the Titanium version with the 1.5-liter and 120-liter diesel engine and the Vinagle, the 1.5-liter, the Ecoboost, the 3-cylinder and the 182 horsepower, both coupled with the new 8-step automatic transmission. It also comes with a rotating "changer" similar to the one found in Jaguar and Land Rover. The two rear shocks can be operated to manually change the steps.
The dimensions of the new Focus are comparable to those of the older generation, but the wheelbase has increased and the interior space is also increased. For example, the rear seats have a space comparable to that of a Mondeo. In addition, the rear seatback is an idea above the front seats, which allows for better visibility. Of course, not the same thing, but much more than the previous generation. The seats are also comfortable, with good lateral support and this time comes with a seat that can be extended, as can be found in the Opel Astra and in the high-end models
Speaking of the 39 space, the new Focus has a luggage compartment of 375 liters in the sedan against 363 liters of the previous generation. Compared to other models in the segment, the Focus does not excel, especially compared to the Peugeot 308 which climbs to 470 liters, but is comparable to major rivals like Megane or Golf and, more recently, Kia ceded [19659003] the new generation, Ford has worked hard to stop cars. Regardless of the version and the engine, the Focus is very well compensated. Whether you drive a diesel or gasoline, the engine is barely audible. In addition, Vignale also has double glazing for even better sound insulation. Although at first glance and the previous generation was a soundproof soundproof car, the new Focus is on the way to the net. To achieve this level, the engineers have insulated the treadmill with sound-absorbing materials, and the suspension makes almost no noise. To emphasize that these materials generally bring extra weight, the new Focus is lighter than the previous model. Ford has also abandoned the conventional radio antenna in favor of a "shark wing" like premium cars.
Inside and out, the quality of assembly and materials is paramount. about what Ford has offered up until now. For this reason, Americans probably say that Focus is the best Ford ever made. Inside, we find soft materials, a touching touch and a lot of details. For example, on the center console, where the knee comes in contact with the console, Ford has put a soft cloth just to provide extra comfort for the driver. He drives it, the suspension feels a softer idea, but this time everything depends on the settings. The Focus now comes with two types of rear suspension – an insulated and insulated body with rubber elements to eliminate the vibrations – that we find on the Wagon, Vignale, ST Line and Active, and the rest on the higher versions of the engine. The others will receive a semi-rigid rear axle, which does not bother at all. The implementation of both types of bridges was made for reasons of cost and weight.
It should be mentioned that Focus also comes with the third-generation Sync-3 system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play. The latest update system worked very well with Waze and Google Maps on Android Auto, including in France using a roaming phone. Android Auto is particularly useful in urban traffic because the system can read and recite incoming messages on Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp or SMS, and the system can also respond with voice commands. In addition, Android Auto allows you to access Spotify, Google Music and Google audio books. In addition, if your mobile phone has the AccuWeather application, Sync 3 can also provide weather information.
Regarding the automobile, one of the most balanced choices is the EcoBlue diesel engine with 120 hp 1.5 liter. Of course, the 1.0-liter EcoBoost of 100 or 125 horsepower is a good choice, but they were not available in the test.
The 1.5-liter diesel engine has a torque of 300 Nm between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm. Coupled with the new eight-speed automatic transmission, the unit is an excellent choice both for the city and for a long or very long trip. In addition, the box changes very well reports, "knows" exactly when to change precisely to avoid too much caresses or too much engine. Torque reserves at over 1750 rpm make it easy to overcome, and on a winding mountain road, diesel is a very enjoyable drive. With regard to consumption, in a normal way, without having to deal specifically with a style of ecological consumption and travel with three passengers next to a full mountain and highway luggage compartment , the on-board computer indicates an average fuel consumption of 5.6 liters / 100 km. With a slightly more economical style, consumption drops rapidly to 4 liters / 100 km, and a fast mountain climb increases to 7.5 liters / 100 km. Although many "hear" the swan singing of diesel, Americans who strongly promote the highly efficient EcoBoost on gasoline, also recommend the EcoBlue diesel. In addition, the rotating "spool" on the middle tunnel is easy to use and frees the space between the seats. Those who want to change manually have the paddles behind the wheel.
From a dynamic point of view, Focus has hitherto been a benchmark in the compact segment, and the fourth generation seems to continue the tradition. In addition, with new technologies, such as the deactivation of 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine cylinders, he continues to promote as a rival for Volkswagen Golf. It was immediately followed by a precise and easy to follow direction beside the exemplary road holding.
Following the trend, Focus comes with the latest technology available for Ford. The Americans first stated that it was "the best car ever produced under the Ford logo". Given the engine, technology and, last but not least, the quality of the materials and the assembly, Ford is probably right.
Regarding safety, the fourth generation of Focus received the maximum score. , 5 stars, Euro NCAP security tests. Focus thus becomes one of the first vehicles to receive the maximum score according to the new, more rigorous test protocols of Euro NCAP
Focus benefits from security systems such as pre-assistance -collision with pedestrian and bicycle detectors and detection of cyclists. This system can detect pedestrians and cyclists on the road or near the roadway who could cross the path of the car automatically braking automatically if it detects a potential collision and the driver does not respond to warnings.
Euro NCAP gave Focus high scores for both the protection of adults and passengers (85%) and the protection of children (87%). These scores were made possible by a 40% improvement in shock absorption capacity with Focus's transition to the new C2 architecture, but also with the support of the new structure, which contains 33% of sub- ultra-resistant steel assemblies.
The new Ford Focus introduces a range of advanced driver assistance systems based on three radars, two cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors and includes:
Adaptive Cruise Control, now enhanced with Stop & Go, the recognition of road markers and centering of lanes, which help drivers to effortlessly get close to traffic jams. This system is supported by Lane Keeping Aid and Intelligent Speed Assist, both of which are particularly appreciated by Euro NCAP.
Adaptive headlamps with cornering lights and road marker recognition that pre-adjust light beam diagrams for better visibility of the road, and – for the first time in the industry – by monitoring traffic signs indicating angles and intersections
), a system that uses radar and a camera that detects stationary or slow moving vehicles in front of the car and gives additional directional thrust to allow drivers to bypass obstacles in the event of an impending collision [19659003] Poor warning, available in the first phase of customers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. It uses a windshield-mounted camera and the information provided by the car's navigation system to visually and acoustically warn drivers when they enter between two "No Access" signs on the entrance of the car. # 39; highway.
In the event of an accident, post-crash braking helps reduce the effects of a potential collision by applying moderate braking pressure when an initial collision is detected. the slowing down of the vehicle has the potential to limit the effect of passenger injuries and damage to the car
In addition, the first Ford head-up display in Europe allows drivers to focus on the road while the camera reverses a wide rear vision camera provides a 180 degree field of view behind the vehicle, thus improving the visibility of rearward maneuvers at the car park exit.
Blind Spot Information and Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert alert alert drivers facing back from a place of parking on vehicles approaching behind them. For the first time, this system can now act as a brake to avoid or limit the effects of a collision if the driver does not respond to warnings.
The new Ford Focus is now available throughout Europe in the 5-door hatchback body version, The Wagon and – in some markets – the four-door sedan, the most comprehensive Focus lineup in history is offered in exclusive customization variants that complement a wide range of aspirations and aspirations of the compact segment's customers: Focus Trend, Focus Titanium, ST-Line and the Focus Vignale Premium. The Focus Active Crossover version will be available later this year.
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