Ford Motor Company, through its exclusive distributor in Malaysia, Sime Darby AutoConneXion, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sime Darby Motors Division, has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of the Ford Focus TDCi 2.0-litre Duratorq Turbodiesel.
The Ford Focus’ influence on the automotive world has been significant – and it is the first and only car in the world to be acclaimed “Car of the Year” both in Europe and in North America. Well-known for its driving quality, particularly its precise steering control and chassis balance, the Ford Focus TDCi will continue to uphold these accolades in Malaysia.
The Ford Focus Diesel TDCi boasts a potent 2.0-litre DuraTorq Turbodiesel engine, and represents the first diesel car in its price segment. This engine combines with an innovative six-speed PowerShift transmission system that delivers the dynamics of a manual gearbox with the driving ease of an automatic transmission.
“The 2.0-litre DuraTorq Turbodiesel engine delivers best in class performance, engineering and safety. Combined with better cost and fuel efficiency, the Focus TDCi model promises no compromise to its driving performance,” said David Westerman, Asia Pacific Regional Manager at Ford Export and Growth Operations.
“The introduction of the sporty new Focus TDCi is another testament of our commitment to delivering a world-class lineup of Ford vehicles, and we are confident it will garner strong appeal among Malaysian consumers who appreciate style and driving performance,” said Hazem Abd Rahman, Managing Director of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.
The 2.0-litre DuraTorq Turbodiesel engine produces 134 horsepower and more importantly for urban driving, delivers high torque at low engine speeds. Under full acceleration, the engine calibration allows the engine to exceed its maximum nominal torque of 320Nm by 20Nm for 8 seconds – peaking at 340Nm during brief over-boost periods.
“In the ASEAN markets where diesel and petrol fuel are near price parity, the Focus TDCi’s DuraTorq Turbodiesel engine delivers dynamic and efficiency advantages. The Ford Focus TDCi, which is biodiesel compatible, offers a more cost-efficient choice for consumers due to its low fuel consumption,” explained Westerman.
PowerShift automatic transmission
Best-in-class, the PowerShift automatic with double-clutch technology is highly refined and is able to shift smoothly through its six-speed gearbox more efficiently than a conventional automatic transmission. The engine also comes with state-of-the-art common rail injection technology for high efficiency, high pulling torque and low fuel consumption.
The PowerShift is much more efficient than a conventional torque converter automatic transmission, and this efficiency is realised with best-in-class fuel efficiency of 5.8l/100km (combined urban and extra urban according to 1999/100/EC) from its 2.0-litre DuraTorq Turbodiesel engine. It is able to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 9.9 seconds.
In addition, the excellent chassis control and steering precision give the Focus its on-road agility.
Enhanced Interior
Inside the Ford Focus, the emphasis is on improving the quality of materials and enhancing comfort levels. Either in Diamond White or Panther Black, the soft-touch dash pad, as well as soft-touch upper door trims contrast beautifully against a grey-coloured inner roof lining to visually lighten the Focus’ interior. The dark dash greatly reduces windscreen reflection in bright sun conditions.
A large-face tachometer and speedometer are set deeply into individual binnacles. Positioned above are small-face water temperature and fuel gauges, each surrounded by a silver bezel. Between the two large gauges is an LCD information screen displaying time, outside temperature, tripmeter and odometer.
The LCD screen also displays menu options for distance to average speed, and fuel consumption. Quality features of the Ford Focus also include premium centre console, rear Parking Aid sensors, one-touch power window control, power adjustable driver seat, in-dash 6 CD changer with an MP3 player and 6 speakers.
Safety
A key strength of the Ford Focus has always been its no-compromise approach to safety which includes the Ford Intelligent Protection System. The new Ford Focus maintains a robust list of standard active and passive safety features, which includes the Ford Intelligent Protection System and a rigid, reinforced passenger cell. To enhance the overall Focus safety package, larger exterior side mirrors improve driver’s side visibility.
All new Ford Focus series variants are fitted with a clever automatic hazard warning light activation system, which warns drivers after emergency braking manoeuvres. Additionally, it is equipped with a comprehensive Traction Control System (TCS) to assist in maintaining grip, while driving on loose or slippery surfaces.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) technology is available on all new Focus models, while the new Focus Sport TDCi comes standard with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) that assists the driver to maintain vehicle stability during all driving situations. Retail price of the new Ford Focus 2.0L (5-door Sport) Diesel TDCi is RM 128,888. The vehicles can be viewed at selected Sime Darby AutoConnexion showrooms from March onwards.
