WITH THINGS STARTING to get back to normal after the COVID-19 disruption, new models and upgrades are coming thick and fast.
The 2020 Ford Focus will receive equipment upgrades and specification improvements in a sharpened, Australian-specific driver-focused (pardon the pun) line-up.
New features will further enhance the already specific ethos and character of each model, now simplified to three clearly defined choices and offered exclusively in the practical, spacious and style-driven hatch body-style.
“The Focus has a reputation as a driver’s car, so we are pleased to present a line-up that strongly reflects that,” said Kay Hart, President and CEO of Ford Australia and New Zealand. “We’ve made the ST-Line an even better drive with its suspension upgrades, while the Active clearly reflects the outdoor adventurous spirit that its name implies with added practicality, too.”
The sharpened Focus line-up will consist of the highly-equipped, distinctive Focus ST-Line and Focus Active models, which sit below the recently-launched Ford Performance-developed Focus ST.
Focus 2020: Sport or Adventure
Focus ST-Line and Focus Active provide distinctive, clear identities, capitalising on the driving dynamics, practicality and efficiency inherent in the new-generation Ford Focus. Both are powered by the 134kW/240Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged EcoBoost powertrain, complete with 8-speed automatic and front-wheel drive, with 6.4L/100km fuel economy.
Technology standardised as part of the comprehensive package on Focus will now include FordPass Connect embedded modem, which brings greater accessibility, convenience and capability to Focus owners through their compatible smartphone.
FordPass Connect is standard on the updated Focus ST-Line and Active models, bringing an array of convenient remote vehicle functionality and connected services, such as remote vehicle lock and unlock. The FordPass App also brings several services that are designed to simplify the ownership experience, placing key vehicle information in the palm of the hand. These include access to roadside assistance, the ability to schedule a service online and check their recent service history, their owners’ manual, and even a convenient way to get in touch with a ‘Ford Guide’, who can assist – by phone or email – with any queries about connected services.
Previously optional front parking sensors are now standard across the range, completing a comfort and technology suite with day-to-day purpose and ease of use. These complement the existing standard equipment, including a 180-degree reversing camera, which utilises the Focus’ 8.0-inch full-colour touchscreen display. The display also hosts Ford’s SYNC 3 system, which includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone compatibility, with wireless smartphone charging.
From the cabin, new LED headlights improve forward vision, while also increasing visibility to other road-users outside of the vehicle. The upgraded lighting enables Focus’ Daytime Running Lights a distinct identity though its light signature, in addition to the improved vision.
The upgraded Focus line-up also sees a bolder colour palette, with two new colours – Race Red, as standard colour – and Fantastic Red, a prestige option – available. Race Red, a colour selected for the Ford Mustang and flagship Focus ST, will be offered on all models, including the Focus Active, for the first time.
Focus ST-Line: driver-focused athleticism
The Europe-sourced Focus range now offers an even better equipped ST-Line hatch complete with its unique body stying, lowered sports suspension and interior detailing, which includes unique red-seat stitching and wireless smartphone charging.
Specific improvements to the 2020 Focus ST-Line hatch include the introduction of multi-link rear suspension. The technical upgrade reflects the Focus’ dynamic attributes and offers greater comfort through a more refined cabin with its quieter ride, truly reflecting the athletic and driver-oriented character of the ST-Line.
Focus Active: spirit of adventure
With its greater ground clearance and unique, off-road driving modes, the Focus Active continues to build its reputation as a weekend-getaway vehicle. Customers seeking the practicality and convenience of hatch, but with enhanced capability of its Trail and Slippery drive modes, will also benefit from upgraded lighting for clearer vision ahead, with multi-link rear suspension aiding off-road flexibility while contributing to on-road manners.
The upgraded Focus line-up is on sale in Australia and New Zealand from December 2020.
2020 Ford Focus MLP and option packages
| 2020 Updated Focus | Recommended price (plus on road costs) |
| Focus ST-Line 5dr auto | $30,990 |
| Focus Active 5dr auto | $30,990 |
| Options | ST-Line Hatch | Active | |
| Prestige Paint | $650 | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Assist Pack (Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Active Braking) |
$1,250 | ✓ | ✓ |
| Panorama Roof – Power Opening | $2,000 | ✓ | ✓ |
Once we have tested and assessed the new Ford Focus ST and Active, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.