Ford slashes variants from Focus range

Ford has taken a scalpel to its Focus small-car range, slashing the number of available variants from seven to three as it aims to streamline and simplify the line-up.

This means the entry-level Ambiente ($23,490), mid-spec Trend ($26,490), and upper-spec Titanium ($34,990) will not be replaced once current stock runs out.

The Focus is also now available as a hatch only, with the ST-Line wagon also axed.

This means the ST-Line, outdoorsy Active and the ST hot hatch introduced last month will be the only variants remaining once the updated Focus line-up goes on sale in December.

Given the current Focus range has only been on sale here for 18 months, Ford’s been swift in its changes.

The Ambiente has been on the market for even less time, though to be fair it was only available in limited stock and Ford had been open about it not having a long future in Australia. Ford Australia president Kay Hart said the move aimed to offer variants with distinct, easily defined personalities.

“The Focus has a reputation as a driver’s car, so we are pleased to present a line-up that strongly reflects that,” she said.

“We’ve made the ST-Line an even better drive with its suspension upgrades, while the Active clearly reflects the outdoor adventurous spirit that its name implies with added practicality, too.”

The ST-Line is pitched as a hatch for keen drivers without having to step up to the ST.

The Active has greater ground clearance and off-road driving modes, offering some outdoor fun.

Both now cost $30,990 plus on road costs, a price bump of $500 and $1500 respectively.

For the extra money, both models now get a multi-link rear suspension for improved dynamics and comfort, front parking sensors, new LED headlights and FordPass Connect, which allows for perks such as remote vehicle locking and unlocking. Both variants still have a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine offering 134kW/240Nm.

Options are also minimal, with a choice of premium paint ($650), powered sunroof ($2000) and a $1250 Driver Assist Pack adding safety features, at least some of which should probably have already been included: adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert with active braking.