In celebration of the highly anticipated release of the all-new Ford Focus 2019, let us take a moment to reflect on the remarkable 20-year journey of this iconic model’s production and evolution. Autodaily brings you a comprehensive overview of the crucial milestones in the history of the Ford Focus.
Focus – Ford’s crowning glory.
Debuting in Europe in 1998, the Focus took the stage two years prior to its official release in the United States. Since then, this compact car has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a fuel-efficient and affordable model to a fierce powerhouse boasting 350 HP. Ford has never failed to astound its customers with an array of body styles, engines, and performance versions.
Before delving into the distinctive design features of the 2019 Ford Focus and its predecessor, let’s take a moment to trace the fascinating history of this compact automotive gem.
First-generation Ford Focus (1998)
When the Focus made its debut in 1998, it bore a weighty mission – to replace the Escort as Ford’s compact model. Accomplishing this feat with stunning prowess, the Focus boasted groundbreaking design and an array of body style options, including a wagon.
Ford Focus WRC (1999-2010)
Following its introduction to the public, Ford decided to unleash the Focus onto the racetracks, participating in the World Rally Championship. In its debut year, legendary driver Colin McRae took the wheel of the Focus.
By 2010, the Focus had secured 44 stage wins, although it had not yet claimed the driver’s title in the World Rally Championship. Nonetheless, Ford emerged victorious in the manufacturer’s category in both 2006 and 2007.
Ford Focus – The World’s Best-selling Car (2001-2002)
Shortly after its arrival in the U.S., the Focus ascended to the pinnacle of automotive success, becoming the best-selling car worldwide. This record remained unbroken until 2011 and 2012.
Ford Focus RS (2002)
In 2002, Ford introduced two high-performance versions of the Focus – the ST170 and RS, with the RS also known as the Focus SVT in the U.S. market.
While the ST170 and SVT lacked the potent 215 HP 2.0-liter turbocharged engine found in the RS, both models solidified the Focus brand as a performance vehicle accessible to a wide range of users.
Second-generation Ford Focus (2004)
With the second generation, the design of the Focus for the European and American markets diverged. Ford unveiled the second-generation Focus at the International Paris Motor Show in 2004, showcasing significant improvements in quality, overall design, and performance.
It wasn’t until 2008 that the second-generation Focus made its debut in the U.S. market, marking the moment when Ford embraced the Focus as a performance brand.
Ford Focus ST (2005)
In Europe, the Focus ST boasted a 5-cylinder 2.5-liter engine delivering a formidable 225 HP. Ford also brought the Focus ST version to the U.S., although the American market received a more modest version with a 4-cylinder engine generating 151 HP. These models replaced the discontinued SVT version in 2004.
Facelifted Ford Focus (2007)
In 2007, Ford introduced a facelifted version of the second-generation Focus, featuring various design updates and additional features. This pivotal moment coincided with Ford introducing a distinct second-generation Focus in North America for the 2008 models.
In this market, the hatchback and wagon options were discontinued, making way for a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan. Furthermore, the 2008 Focus introduced customers to the Ford Sync infotainment system.
Ford Focus RS (2009)
Ford confirmed the arrival of the second-generation Focus RS, and in 2009, dealerships and customers were graced with this remarkable model. Harnessing the power of the ST’s 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine developed in collaboration with Volvo, the RS elevated power output to an impressive 305 HP. This immense power was channeled to the front axle, which featured a mechanical limited-slip differential.
Although U.S. customers had to wait until 2008 to get their hands on the RS, the car garnered a fervent following, with enthusiasts continually clamoring for its arrival in the states.
Ford Focus RS500 (2010)
In celebration of the RS’s success, Ford introduced the RS500 – a hatchback model boasting a sleek matte black exterior, with a limited production run of just 500 units. However, the RS500 was not merely about its striking appearance.
Under the hood, the Ford RS500 commanded attention with a power output of 345 HP and a maximum torque of 488 Nm, courtesy of the dedicated 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. These impressive figures catapulted the RS500 into the ranks of the most formidable front-wheel-drive cars in recent memory.
Third-generation Ford Focus (2010)
In 2010, Ford unveiled the third-generation Focus at both the Detroit Auto Show and the Geneva Motor Show. While Europe welcomed the car as a 2011 model, North American customers had to wait until 2012 to experience this marvel of automotive innovation.
With the third-generation Focus, Ford embarked on a journey of unification, ensuring the Focus shared a cohesive identity across the markets it served. This generation also introduced customers to the all-electric version – the Focus Electric – as well as the revolutionary EcoBoost 1.0 engine.
Ford Focus ST (2012)
The same year witnessed the grand debut of the new Focus as well as the introduction of the Focus ST, marking the triumphant return of this performance-driven model.
While the ST was available in a 5-door hatchback or wagon style in Europe, the U.S. market exclusively received the hatchback version. Furthermore, the second-generation Focus ST exchanged the 5-cylinder engine for an enhanced EcoBoost 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 252 HP.
Facelifted Ford Focus (2014)
In 2014, Ford treated the Focus to a comprehensive facelift, featuring a redesigned front end and a host of available cutting-edge technologies. This design overhaul ensured the Focus seamlessly integrated into the overall design language of the Ford brand.
Ford Focus RS (2015)
In 2015, the wait was finally over as Ford proudly announced the triumphant return of the Focus RS. This highly anticipated model arrived in North America, following in the footsteps of the acclaimed 2012 ST. Like its predecessor, the RS bid farewell to the 5-cylinder engine, replacing it with a potent EcoBoost 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine generating a staggering 350 HP. To complement its immense power, the Focus RS boasted an all-wheel drive system.
Fourth-generation Ford Focus (2018)
In early April, Ford unveiled the fourth-generation Focus, set to conquer the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. The model is expected to hit the U.S. market in 2019. Boasting three body styles – the 5-door hatchback, wagon, and sedan – the 2019 Ford Focus is built on an entirely new platform, offering enhanced overall dimensions and an expanded interior space. Ford also equipped the fourth-generation model with a range of cutting-edge technologies.
diep_pn (forum.autodaily.vn)
The Evolution of Ford Focus over the Past 20 Years
It has been 20 years since the first Ford Focus was introduced to the public. Join Autodaily as we review the significant milestones that have made up the success story of this car brand.
