14 September 2012

Ford Focus officially launched in Malaysia


After a series of preview to the media and potential customer, Sime Darby Auto finally launched the Thai-made third generation Ford Focus to our shore. As expected, both body styles of sedan and hatchback made their entry, with the standard trim and '+' trim configuration. The sedan is labelled as "Titanium" while the Hatchback is called "Sport". The good news is that the official price is cheaper than earlier prediction. The Titanium sedan and Sport hatch goes for RM115,888 while the Titanium+ and Sport+ goes for RM128,888. The prices are OTR with insurance. Sime Darby also has thrown a generous warranty, totally 200,000km or 5 years.

All variants are powered by the 2.0L Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) unit with the direct injection system.The engine packs a healthy amount of output. The horsepower is 170PS@6,500rpm while the torque is 202Nm@4,550 rpm. Drive is channelled via the dual clutch transmission with 6 ratios, dubbed Powershift. While no century sprint figure is given, top speed is quoted as 202km/h. The engine will accept minimum RON95. The fuel efficiency rate is given as 6.6L/100km in combined cycle.

MMN tested the car back in August, and we concluded that it is a superb drive, with a very keen handling that is more poised than most car in its price segment. Head on to our Ford Focus Test Drive verdict HERE.

Just to recap, the new Focus sits on 2,648mm wheelbase (Civic 2,670mm & Proton Preve 2,650mm). Overall length is 4,534mm for the sedan, while the hatchback is a tad shorter at 4,358mm. Width is 1,823mm while height is 1,484mm.

Ford Focus is suspended at the front by Independent McPherson strut with hydro bushing subframe isolated lower control arm. The rear end is taken care by the Focus-customary Independent Control Blade with isolated subframe too. Both end are installed with anti-roll bar. The new Focus sits on 205/60 R16 in sedan guise while the hatchback rides on 215/50 R17.

Braking is provided ventilated disc at the front and solid disc at the back. There's host of electronic trickery to the braking and handling assistance. All models gets the ABS with EBD and BA. Traction is enhanced by the ESP, Traction Control System (TCS) and Torque Vectoring Control which independently controlled the torque supplied to each of the front wheel which in effect create a LSD effect. Hill Launch Assist is available too.
Titanium Sedan light-colored cabin

Two interior color scheme is available. The Titanium (and +) comes with light trim and upholstered in full leather. The Sport (and Sport+) comes with black interior and wrapped in sportier half-leather. All versions are generously equipped. Standard across the range include ABS with EBD and BA. Traction is enhanced by the ESP, Traction Control System (TCS) and Torque Vectoring Control which independently controlled the torque supplied to each of the front wheel which in effect create a LSD effect. Hill Launch Assist is available too. Dual front SRS and side airbags are include too.
Sport hatchback darker cabin with partial leather upholstery

As for the cabin, the list of gadget encompasses they keyless entry with push button, automatic dual zone climate control, leather wrapped steering (with audio controls), gearknob and handbrake, express up and down power window, 4.2" color multi-function screen, Ford SYNC audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, 9 speakers setup, aforementioned leather seats (partial for hatchback), powered 4-way adjustment for driver and sun visor with illuminated vanity mirrors.

For enhancing the fuel economy, Ford new Focus is equipped with ECO mode as well as innovative Active Grille Shutter with closed the outer two intake in high speed condition to reduce drag.

Opting for the + trims will gains you curtain airbags, Bi-Xenon headlamps with washer, Follow-me-home lighting, rain sensor, automatic headlamps, cluster variable dimming, auto dimming rear view mirror, Active Park Assist, Active City Stop, Blind Sport Information System and Cruise Control. Speaking about the Park Assist, the system can really parallel-park the car with you controlling only the brake and gear.

For more information and photo gallery of the the 3rd generation Focus, head to MMN previous coverage.


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