Ford reveals 80mpg Focus 06 | 04 | 2011

WITH FUEL prices still outrageously high, despite the steps taken in the Budget, Ford is claiming class-leading fuel efficiency for the next-gen Ford Focus Econetic. The car will make its debut at next week’s Amsterdam motor show.

Using Ford's newly-retuned 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine, producing 104bhp, Ford claims the Econetic will deliver 80mpg and emit “less than 95g/km” of CO2 when it arrives in Scottish dealerships in next Spring. Such is the advancement in petrol technology that the figures are 10mpg more and 15g/km less than the current Focus 1.6 TDCi.

Fuel efficiency is aided by the introduction of a new injection system and turbocharger, but in addition there is a string of additional features which aid low fuel consumption and reduce emissions; low-resistance tyres, a revised final drive ratio and a shift indicator light, brake energy recuperation and stop-start all play their part.

The Focus also gets an active grille shutter, which uses vents to control airflow to the cooling system and engine bay, and can close when no cooling air is required. Ford calculates that when shut, the unit reduces CO2 emissions by 2%.

The Econetic will be offered in both five-door and estate form; Ford has yet to confirm prices, but t's fair to expect a small premium over regular diesel Focuses.

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Jim McGill