Ford has confirmed plans for a new 99g/km Econetic version of the UK’s biggest selling fleet model, arriving in the UK early next year.
The 74.2mpg Focus, coming just in five-door hatchback form, will be joined on the price list by a 104g/km and 70.6mpg alternative that’s not fitted with Ford’s stop-start system.
There’s no word yet on what the price gap between the two models will be, with the cars due in the UK early in 2010. The 104g/km version without stop-start will be available as an estate as well as five-door hatchback, though Ford has chosen not to offer a 99g/km estate.
Both figures are a big jump on the current model’s 115g/km and 65.6mpg, with the emissions and economy improvements coming via a series of measures including revamped engine management, mechanical modifications and revised gear ratios.
Power comes from a 109PS 1.6-litre diesel, though Ford will also offer a 90PS 1.6-litre diesel with the same emissions and economy figures for a lower entry price.
Full pricing and spec will be announced later this year.
Ford has also revealed the plug-in electric Focus prototype model that will take part in Government-funded trials next year. The Focus Battery Electric Vehicle has a 75-mile range and top speed of 85mph, and 15 prototypes will take part in London-based trials during 2010.
