2012 Ford Focus Preview
DesignCheck out the creases, the swells, the angles, and the folds of the new 2012 Ford Focus's skin. This is what Ford calls "kinetic" design. According to the automaker, kinetic design intends to "capture the feeling of energy in motion, so that cars look like they are moving even when they are standing still." Whether that's the impression you get when looking at the photos of the 2012 Ford Focus or not, know that this kinetic design language is likely to translate across the entire Ford lineup in coming years.
Under the sheetmetal, the new Focus boasts a 25-percent increase in torsional rigidity over the current model, thanks in part to the extensive use of ultra-high-strength and Boron steels in the car's construction, Ford says. In fact, because this car must meet widely different crashworthiness standards in all of the global markets in which it will compete, the new Focus has significantly more of these materials baked into its body shell than any other FoMoCo product, the automaker adds.
The stiff structure paves the way for improvements in construction quality, Ford says, adding that it is setting difficult standards for gap tolerances, panel fits, and color matching, inside and out. According to Ford, "each component in the vehicle that the customer will touch, see, hear or even smell has been subjected to rigorous analysis to ensure that it will exceed an owner's expectations."
To that end, the new Focus aims to make occupants feel like they're riding in a car several notches above the typical compact. Cabin elements include a soft-touch instrument panel, upgraded trim, high-tech display panels, and modern colors and graphics. Plus, Ford has worked to reduce cabin noise for a quieter driving experience.
Model Lineup
The 2012 Ford Focus goes on sale in early 2011 as a 5-door hatchback or 4-door sedan. Buyers looking for more passenger and cargo space can opt for the 2012 Ford Focus C-MAX, which is a mini-minivan along the lines of today's Mazda 5 and which can seat seven people. Trim level designations for the Focus had not been announced at the time this article was originally published, but based on Fiesta specifications, we surmise there will be base, SE, SES Sport and SEL variants available. Ford has also announced an electric version of the Focus, but timing for its arrival on the market is not yet set. Look for a variety of technologies uncommon to the compact car class to be offered on higher trim levels, along with features like premium audio, a power sunroof, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery.
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