Ford says Focus Econetic will be Europe's most fuel-efficient compact vehicle

Eric Loveday

Here in the States, it's the 40-mile-per-gallon SFE trim on the 2012 Focus that's the fuel efficiency champ of Ford's compact hatchback lineup. However, over in Europe, it's the Focus Econetic. Developed purely with efficiency in mind, Ford says that the Econetic will get an estimated 80 mpg on the European testing cycle (67 mpg U.S.) and should emit less than 95 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Final emissions and fuel economy certifications will be completed in late 2011.

If the Focus Econetic can meet the targets that Ford has set, then it will become Europe's most fuel-efficient compact vehicle, topping all of its diesel-, gasoline- and hybrid-powered competitors.

The Focus Econetic's efficiency starts with a 103-horsepower, 1.6-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine. That, combined with low-friction piston rings, Ford' Durashift six-speed manual transmission, start-stop technology, regenerative charging, Ford's Eco Mode system and a revised final drive ratio, allow the Econetic model to achieve its outstanding fuel economy. The Focus Econetic will be offered in both four- and five-door body styles and should hit European streets in early 2012.




[Source: Automotive News – sub. req.]