In a first for Focus in Australia, the entry level CL model now comes with dual front airbags and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) as standard equipment, all for the recommended retail price of $19,990*.

"Focus has established a reputation as a highly-specified value-for-money model and these enhancements are sure to reinforce its position as one of the most desirable new vehicles in the small-car segment," said Ford Australia Vice President Marketing and Sales, Mark Winslow.

"The introduction of new safety features across the new Focus line-up, the availability of a new diesel powertrain and two new body-styles helps to extend the appeal of what is already one of the world's most exciting to drive small cars."

All five model series in the Focus range – CL, LX, TDCi, Zetec and Ghia – now feature dual front airbags and ABS with EBD as standard equipment.

Driver and front passenger side airbags are added to the LX, TDCi, Zetec and Ghia specification, while Zetec and Ghia models also receive Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control (TC) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) as standard.

Motorists wishing to further enhance the safety of their new Focus can also specify an optional safety pack, the contents of which depend on the model selected.

The CL Safety Pack consists of driver and front passenger side airbags, curtain airbags, DSC, TC and EBA, and is available for a recommended retail price of $1,600.

The LX/TDCi Safety Pack includes curtain airbags, DSC, TC and EBA, for a recommended retail price (RRP) of $1,300, while Zetec and Ghia models can be further specified with the addition of curtain airbags ($400 RRP).

Recommended retail pricing for CL, LX, Zetec and Ghia models in the new Focus range has been reduced with the introduction of the new line-up, in some cases falling by as much as $1,500, with prices now ranging from $19,990* for the CL through to $29,490* for the highly desirable Ghia model.

"Focus has always represented outstanding value for money, but the new pricing structure makes it one of the best deals available," said Mr Winslow.

"Focus offers German engineering, superb driving dynamics, a high level of standard safety equipment and a very competitive price, making the new range an extremely compelling value proposition."

A new 2.0-litre turbo diesel five-door model, featuring a six-speed manual transmission, is another eagerly awaited addition to the new Focus range, becoming the first diesel-powered passenger car in the Ford Australia line-up.

"There is an increasing awareness of the benefits associated with diesel and a subsequent groundswell of desire for diesel alternatives, so Ford has introduced an all-new Focus diesel option in direct response to consumer demand," said Mr Winslow.

"Today's diesel technology is state-of-the-art and, in some aspects of motoring such as fuel efficiency and range, can provide performance benefits over and above petrol engines."

Two new body-styles have been introduced as part of the freshening actions. A new Zetec sedan with five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission is available, along with a Ghia hatchback with a four-speed automatic transmission.

"Focus customers expressed a desire for a Zetec sedan and a Ghia hatchback model. Again, we have listened and we've added these two derivatives to the line-up, to cater for motorists who want an even more highly specified feature-laden small car," said Mr Winslow.

New exterior door mirrors incorporating a turn indicator are standard on all models and a new front bumper, as appears on the Focus Coupé-Cabriolet, has been incorporated across the range (excluding XR5 Turbo).

New alloy wheel designs on Zetec and Ghia further differentiate the freshened range, as do the two new exterior colours, Ocean and Tonic, while a new fold-out flip remote key is also part of the updated Focus package.

The six-disc CD audio system that is standard in the Ghia models is available as an option for Focus LX, TDCi and Zetec owners, while ebony leather seat trim is optional on Zetec models.

"Focus sales rose by 63 per cent in 2006 compared with the previous year, which shows an increasing number of people have come to appreciate Focus and its outstanding driving dynamics, comfort, quality and refinement," said Mr Winslow.

"The enhancements introduced across the new Focus range add to its desirability and confirm Focus as one of the safest, most versatile and fun to drive small car models available in Australia."