Next Generation Ford Focus
 

"Ford isn't talking mileage numbers for the next-gen Focus yet, but it clearly is a priority for the new car. With Chevrolet aiming for 40+ mpg on the highway for the the Cruze, Ford will surely be trying to match it. To that end, designers have also focused a lot on functional aerodynamics in addition to just aesthetic styling. One of the more interesting features are thermostatically controlled shutters behind the grille. At higher speeds when more air naturally flows through the radiator, the shutters automatically close and force air around the sides of the car."

:thumbup:

Source: Autoblog

Next-Gen Ford Focus unveiled! U.S. and Euro models finally united — Autoblog

Dayyyyyyyyum, that looks really nice...and I HATE Ford. This is sure a far cry from the 1st Gen Focus, I Mean real far cry. This looks as good as any car out there in my estimation.

And talk about aerodynamics...the wind is going to be saying to itself, "Did I just feel something?"

http://i49.tinypic.com/25s8p53.jpg

Active grill blocks! woot

"Dayyyyyyyyum, that looks really nice...and I HATE Ford.

Me too.

If that thing had factory rear wheel skirts, I'd need a moment alone. ;)

Why hate Ford? It's the only decent "American" car company.

ChazInMT -

Yeah, that mini-wagon is sweet. I like the spoiler because it's already sloping down a wee-bit; it would make a great anchor for a kamm-back (or boat tail?) extension.

CarloSW2

The electronically controlled manual transmission sounds interesting. I wonder if it gets stick shift mileage while allowing the driver to drive like an automatic?

According to the EPA testing don't most modern cars get similar mileage (stick vs. auto)? I think the main benefit of the stick shift for ecomodders is the opportunity to easily and safely coast.

I like the concept of the dual clutch auto design but I think the CVT if properly executed can provide better efficiency from an auto trans.

More info on dual clutch transmissions: http://cars.about.com/od/thingsyoune...owDSGworks.htm

I don't have a lot of love for Ford products in general - but am impressed with that Focus!

The problem with most manual transmissions these days is they have these high-revving gear ratios. The autos often have lower-rpm ratios, which offsets the inherent inefficiency of an automatic. If the ratios were the same, the manual should/would rate higher on the epa test.

...start checking those wrecking yards for "used" active grill block parts, now.

...ie: "parts" recycling!

True. I assumed an "all other things equal" in autos vs. manuals. Two reasons for the ratio differences spring to mind. One, sticks may be marketed more for performance so they're geared for acceleration. Two, carmakers are compensating for the fact that autos typically have lower effective ratios at the torque converter stall speed. I do know that sticks still rule in over the road trucking where FE is critical to make money. Eaton actually makes manuals with automatic clutches now.

Sweet! Maybe my wife and I can agree on this car! She wants a Fusion, but I want 40+ mpg for her 40 mile commute to work and for traveling as a family. This has both (well, not a fusion, but similar styling quality - just a pinch smaller.)

Sticks have shorter gears than the auto because with cruise control it can maintain speed or accelerate while stuck in top gear. The auto can downshift while in cruise if it needs to.

Now, I can see an aftermarket segment for tall freeway gears for those that realize that thier shifting arms and legs aren't broken once they reach freeway speeds.

The newest Focus looks great now. I hope it looks just as good when it comes to market in the US.

Didn't some Civics and Accords come with thermostatically controlled grilles?

...anybody remember (from way back during the "good ole days") the "add-on" tailshaft overdrive units?

...I had one installed on my '53 flathead Ford Crown Vickie!

They should not hamstring the manual *unless* you order it with cruise control! I want tall gearing, and I almost never use cruise control, damn it!

I'm curious to know what these cars weigh, and what the Cd is...

Neil, I hear ya!

If they don't offer an MPG optimized model, Ford Motorsports or someone should offer a taller final drive or 5th or something.

I see some sort of aftermarket segment potential directed at this. Sort of like what the Metro crowd has done.