Ford’s Ranger may be the talk of the town, but the Puma and Focus models are riding in on the Blue Oval’s wave for 2022.
Introducing the mild hybrid version of the Ford Puma along with the new Ford Focus Active, new Focus ST-Line X, and the return of the Ford Focus ST for 2022.
The Blue Oval’s 48-volt MHEV technology will be showcased first in the Puma, improving fuel economy and reducing CO2 while enhancing the Puma’s drive experience.
The MHEV electrified powertrain seamlessly integrates electric torque assistance with a low-friction, three-cylinder 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine to deliver up to 210 Nm.
EcoBoost Hybrid technology enhances Puma’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with an 11.5 kW belt-driven integrated starter/generator (BISG). Ford has also increased the size of the turbocharger and broadened the range at which the Auto Stop-Start functions to further increase fuel efficiency.
Ford’s 2022 Focus will also see the benefits of mild hybrid technology, among a raft of other enhancements, particularly in the areas of infotainment and connectivity.
The EcoBoost Hybrid engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission will now be standard for both the Focus Active and Focus ST-Line X in New Zealand.
Focus will be the first passenger vehicle to-date to benefit from the new SYNC 4 communication and entertainment system, which uses a sophisticated machine learning algorithm to learn from drivers’ behaviour and deliver more accurate suggestions and search results over time.
SYNC 4 is supported by an all-new 13.2-inch central touchscreen, which incorporates controls for functions such as heating and ventilation, resulting in a cleaner and less cluttered centre console.
The system also delivers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration between smartphone functions and SYNC 4.
Using the FordPass app, a range of connected services can be accessed using a smartphone, allowing the customer to stay connected with their car from anywhere with a data signal and utilise features such as Vehicle Status – for checking fuel levels, oil life and Remote Start.
Advanced speech recognition allows occupants to use natural speech, combining on-board data with Internet searches – enabled by FordPass Connect – for quick, accurate responses to infotainment and connectivity commands.
The Focus ST retains the high output 2.3-litre, twin-scroll turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine, delivering 205kW and 420 Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
All Focus models see cosmetic exterior enhancements for 2022 with model specific distinctive characteristics to differentiate them from each other.
