Ford is making bold claims for the ultra-efficient version of the third-generation Focus, which promises to become a class leader when it arrives. It’s packed with green technology and will come in five-door hatchback and estate form.
Ford is claiming a return of 80mpg from the Ford Focus Econetic
What do I need to know about the Ford Focus Econetic?
Official figures haven’t been released yet, but Ford is already making bold, best-in-class statements about the new Focus Econetic, based on the third-generation car launched earlier in the year.
Fuel consumption figures of 80mpg and CO2 emissions below 95g/km have already been suggested by the carmaker. If proved true, the Focus will overtake the VW Golf BlueMotion’s numbers – 74.3mpg and 99g/km – to become the benchmark green car in the class.
Ford aims to achieve these numbers by using a bounty of green technology. This includes engine stop-start, new injectors, a revised turbo and improvements to the catalytic converter and diesel particulate filter.
The Ford Focus Econetic will also be fitted with low rolling-resistance tyres and the automatically operated radiator shutters, as featured on the standard models. Ford also claims to have reduced underbody drag and also fitted the Econetic with special wheel covers, which should all reduce the load on the engine.
Want to know more about the third generation Ford Focus? Read our first drive report here.
The third-generation Focus Econetic uses the much tested 1.6 TDCi engine
What engine will the Ford Focus Econetic use?
The Ford Focus Econetic uses a version of the well established 1.6 TDCi engine, which was co-developed with Peugeot and has been used in models in both brand ranges.
The 1.6 TDCi is one engine already available in the standard 2011 Ford Focus and it emits an impressive 109g/km CO2, meaning Ford has its work cut out to lower this figure to below 95g/km.
If the Focus Econetic does drop to the 95g/km CO2 figure, it will qualify for free car tax. The second-generation Focus Econetic only managed 104g/km, so Ford will be desperate to improve this to fall into tax band A.
Read our Car tax guide or read our Top 10 cars for beating rising car tax costs.
The new 2012 Focus Econetic could qualify for free car tax
When can I buy a Ford Focus Econetic?
The third-generation Ford Focus Econetic won’t be available until early 2012. Like the standard model, it will be available as both a five-door hatchback or estate.
Want to buy a second-hand Focus? Watch our second-generation Ford Focus used buying guide video.
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