Automotive
Just three years following the debut of the fourth-generation Focus, Ford unveiled a refreshed version of its compact European model for the 2021 model year.
Despite the ongoing global pandemic, Ford recognized the need to prepare for better times ahead. After the significant downturn in car sales in 2020, the automaker aimed to give its European compact car a competitive advantage over its unrefreshed rivals. Consequently, the 2021 Ford Focus showcased a more dynamic design, reflecting an evolution of human-centered design principles. Additionally, the vehicle’s interior technology package was enhanced, and its powertrains received improved electrification assistance to boost fuel efficiency. While horsepower had previously been a major selling point, by 2021, fuel efficiency had become the key focus for automakers.
For the 2021 Ford Focus hatchback, the automaker introduced a redesigned front fascia. The new headlamps incorporated integrated LED daytime running lights, while the upper grille varied depending on the trim level and was positioned slightly lower than the headlights, similar to the previous version. Unlike its predecessors, the new model featured the brand badge mounted on the grille rather than above it. Recognizing the effectiveness of air curtains, Ford incorporated functional vents on the lower part of the bumper, flanking a secondary rectangular air intake housing the ADAS radar. Moreover, all trim levels came standard with LED headlights.
From the side profile, only a discerning observer could detect differences between the 2021 Ford Focus and its unrefreshed 2018 counterpart. To minimize costs, the automaker retained as many body panels as possible while making enhancements where cost-effective. Consequently, Ford’s compact hatchback shared similar sculpted door panels on the lower side with its predecessor. However, the automaker opted not to make radical changes, leaving the side skirts unchanged. The notable exception was the new alloy wheel designs available. At the rear, the manufacturer installed broad, redesigned taillights extending from the rear quarter panels onto the tailgate. Although their shape remained similar to the previous version, the automaker added rectangular LEDs to match the headlight design.
The most significant transformations occurred inside the vehicle. The 2021 Ford Focus featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen atop the center stack, running the SYNC4 infotainment system. The display also integrated the HVAC control panel at the bottom, which proved more challenging to use while driving. The instrument cluster included an LCD screen for the driver. The front bucket seats received a redesign, offering improved side support thanks to their gently bolstered areas. In the rear, the vehicle featured a split-folding bench seat that expanded the trunk capacity.
At launch, the 2021 Ford Focus offered a selection of turbodiesel and turbocharged gasoline engines. The 48-volt architecture contributed to enhanced fuel efficiency. The automatic start/stop system activated automatically at speeds below 12 km/h (20 km/h), making it the first Focus model to feature a belt-driven starter generator. The vehicle retained its independent suspension in all corners.
