Ford confirms new Focus Active, Vignale
THE fourth-generation Ford Focus range will be expanded to include Active crossover and luxurious Vignale trims when it arrives later this year, the company’s European product development boss has confirmed.
The new model is due to be revealed in the coming months. And Joe Bakaj, Ford’s European vice-president for product development, has confirmed to Auto Express that it will be available in the same chunky Active trim level as the Fiesta and the recently updated Ka+, featuring a raised ride height and chunky body cladding.
When asked if the next Focus would get the Active treatment, Bakaj replied: “Yes. And we already know it’s going to fit great with that vehicle. It’ll be able to attract some of those customers who want something different. Perhaps they’ve driven saloons all their lives and they want a change; they see SUVS and want that rugged styling. It could be a good alternative for them.”
Ford also believes that a Focus Vignale – with exclusive customisation options and customer service enhancements – can prevent buyers of top-spec models defecting to the likes of the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-class.
Bakaj admitted it “would be odd” if the trim were not offered on the next Focus, and said Vignale is “on track with expectations” in most models. Demand for the trim level in the latest Fiesta is said to have been strong, accounting for one in 10 superminis sold so far.