Smart new Ford Focus launched

Ford launched their 2012 Focus at the Qatar Motor Show, and are hoping to sell 30-50 units a month in 2012, according to Hussein Murad, Ford Middle East’s regional director of sales. “The all-new Ford Focus combines expressive design and an exceptional array of smart new technologies with high levels of craftsmanship and occupant safety,” said Paul Anderson, Ford Middle East’s marketing director.“The all-new Focus redefines the small car category just as it did when it first debuted in 1998, with class-leading fuel economy, distinctive design and strong driving dynamics. With its class-exclusive technologies and first-to-market technologies such as Active Park Assist, SYNC, push-button start, and a six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission, we are changing the norm in this segment and offering premium luxury car features at compact car prices. We are confident the all-new Focus will immediately win the hearts and minds of the younger generation,” Anderson added.The 2012 Focus features an advanced Torque Vectoring Control system fitted as standard, which enhances cornering stability and agility. This technology has, up to now, typically only been available on premium sports vehicles. The Focus is available with the 1.6L and 2.0L engines, and offers the choice for a 5-speed manual or 6-speed PowerShift automatic transmission.What sets this Focus apart is that only one version of the car is available in all markets, making it the first car to be a part of Ford’s “One Ford” strategy. Previously each market had their own model, with Middle East customers receiving theirs from Europe. In Qatar, Ford and Lincoln sales posted a growth of about 40% in 2011 where passenger cars overall recorded a 175% growth. Best sellers included the Taurus, Mustang, Fusion and the Focus.