The all-new German-engineered Ford Focus makes its Australian debut at the Melbourne International Motor Show today, poised to deliver the best of European design and German engineering to the small car class.

Powered by an all-new 2.0-litre four-cylinder Duratec 16-valve engine and featuring four variants across two body styles, the Focus range will build on the reputation of quality and outstanding driving dynamics established by its predecessor.

"The new Focus represents a very exciting evolution for this outstanding car," said Ford Australia President, Tom Gorman.

"The original Focus set the benchmark for driving dynamics in the small car segment and the new Focus raises that bar even further. Combined with the powerful new 2.0-litre engine and increased interior comforts, the new vehicle will redefine driving enjoyment in its class."

From launch, the new Focus family will consist of the popular four and five door models across four variants – the CL, LX, Zetec and Ghia. Focus Zetec will be available as a five door hatch only and Ghia as a four-door sedan only.

Recommended retail pricing for the new Focus, which goes on sale in June, will start from just $20,990* for the CL sedan and hatch with five-speed manual transmission.

A sleek European style

The new Focus hatch features a distinctive silhouette, emphasised by the angle of the windscreen and by the fast, sporty rear end design.

"The design of the new Focus is contemporary and distinctive but with very clear ties to the original model," said Gorman. "It is very clearly a Ford Focus with its trademark high rear lamps and distinctive side window graphic."

The vehicle's interior design continues the theme of premium quality through the use of high quality materials and textures, exceptional fit and finish and new features.

The interior creates a 'cockpit feel', ensuring all controls are logically positioned and within easy reach of the driver.

The power to move

The new Focus will feature a powerful new 2.0-litre four-cylinder Duratec engine across all models.

Delivering 107kW of power at 6000rpm and peak torque of 185Nm at 4500rpm, the new engine employs state of the art combustion and catalytic converter technology to deliver high levels of performance and fuel economy, while meeting Euro IV emission levels.

Extremely durable, the lightweight engine was designed to be very efficient, require low levels of maintenance and provide customers with a long service life.

The engine will be matched by the five-speed manual or the optional four-speed automatic transmission with Sequential Sports Shift.

Poised for smooth driving quality

The original Ford Focus set the benchmark for smooth, sporty driving quality in its class. The new Focus extends that strength to encompass the entire driving experience.

Enhancements under the skin build on seven years' experience with the Control Blade independent rear suspension and a new, stiffer front subframe provides the foundation for chassis elements that have undergone extensive tuning.

"Focus drivers will appreciate enhancements in comfort that have been achieved in the Focus, without sacrificing its signature agility, stability and precise reaction to steering inputs," said Gorman.

The new chassis has been engineered to provide high levels of vibration isolation and stable, confidence-enhancing body control, making it reassuringly comfortable even on coarse Australian roads.

The new vehicle's body structure has also been engineered with a 10 per cent increase in torsional stiffness over its class-leading predecessor.

An all-new electric-hydraulic power-assisted steering system makes low-speed manoeuvres easier while preserving precision on the open road. Larger diameter brakes provide more 'feel', enhanced emergency stopping power and longer brake pad life.

"The new exterior and interior designs, plus a powerful 2.0-litre Duratec engine and new transmissions will strengthen the Focus brand in Australia," says Gorman.

Further product details and full pricing will be announced closer to launch.

* Excluding dealer delivery and statutory charges