Ford has culled several variants from the local Focus line-up for 2020 with the emphasis on either sporting prowess or adventure. The 2020 Focus also gets enhanced connectivity thanks to Ford’s embedded modem tech.
Here at chasing cars, we’re mostly lamenting the discontinuation of the robust Active Wagon variant with its chunky plastic protection, though it will soldier on in hatch form.
Despite its freshness in the segment and dynamic flair, the latest generation focus has struggled against the juggernauts like the Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai i30 and Honda Civic.
No More Wagons for Australia, sadly.
The 2021 shake-up involves axing the wagon body style while removing the entry-level Trend and luxury Titanium variants from the range.
That means there are just two flavours of Focus on offer – save for the ST hot hatch. The first of which is the $30,990 (driveaway pricing TBA) Active hatch, it’s visually akin to the popular Subaru XV, added roof-bars and a slight suspension raise, but no all-wheel-drive here.
There are switchable off-road modes too, which combined with the extra sidewall of the 55-series tyres and the higher ground clearance should give solace to those who like to venture further into the bush.
Don’t forget, the Puma will be here soon.
Although we’d probably recommend waiting for the coming Puma small SUV for those who want more ground clearance.
But if you fancy yourself a bit of a wheelman, Ford offers the ST-Line for the same $30,990 (driveaway pricing TBA). Unlike before, the ST-Line now gets independent rear suspension and a specific spring and damper tune for improved road-holding.
A move that fits in with Ford’s more aggressive pigeon-holing for this line-up revision. Think of the ST-Line as a warm understudy to the full-fat ST.
The ST-Line will be sportier than before.
Naturally, there is exterior detailing to set the ST-Line apart too, with a more aggressive body kit and a set of 17-inch wheels with 215/50 series tyres.
Along with variant specificity, Ford has bolstered in-car connectivity with the FordPass system. Both variants have an embedded modem which will connect with Ford’s smartphone app.
The donk under the bonnet is identical, too, the familiar turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder ‘EcoBoost’ engine with outputs of 134kW and 240Nm and claimed fuel efficiency of 6.4L/100km.
For being active…
Drive is sent to the front wheels only – even on the tough active – via an eight-speed torque converter automatic. A manual will only be available on the range-topping ST now.
As for standard equipment; inside both variants are identical with Ford’s snappy Sync3 infotainment system run through an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reversing camera, LED headlights, and front parking sensors are now standard.
Additionally, a driver assistance package can be optioned for $1,250 and includes goodies like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Ford will sell you a panoramic glass sunroof for $2,000, too.
A simple, no nonsense interior, but we won’t be getting the sweet manual ‘box.
Further personalisation will become available for the Focus with Ford adding two new reds to the focus palette. Race-Red will be a no-cost-option and is borrowed from the Mustang, while Fantastic Red commands an extra $650 on top.
The updated and, err, more focused Focus line-up will arrive in Australia in December this year.
2021 Ford Focus pricing
All prices are before on-road costs
2021 Focus ST-Line Auto Hatch $30,990 (up $2,000)
2021 Focus Active Auto Hatch $30,990 (up $1,000)
2021 Focus ST Manual Hatch $44,690