Ford Focus Active soft-roader to join all-new Focus range in 2019

Ford Australia will introduce its Subaru XV-rivalling Ford Focus Active locally in 2019 in what will be the most comprehensive Ford Focus line-up ever offered in this country.

Sourced from Germany and riding on the Focus’ new-generation C2 platform, the Focus Active promises to combined rugged SUV-inspired styling with an engaging and fun-to-drive experience in a versatile five-door hatchback from $29,990 plus on-road costs.

As a comparison, Subaru’s popular Impreza-based XV is priced from $28,280 plus on-roads.

On the styling front, the Focus Active sits 34mm higher off the ground on its 17-inch alloy wheels to enable owners tackle the occasional rough terrain. It features a unique front bumper with adaptive cornering LED fog lamps, honeycomb grille and LED daytime running lights.

In profile, the Active gets a black beltline with black wheel arch extension for a more rugged look, along with silver finished skid plates front and rear.

Around the back, the high-riding Focus gains an Active-specific rear bumper and twin chrome tailpipes.

Customers can also order an optional $1,800 Design Pack that brings 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights with auto high-beam, as well as rear privacy glass.

Inside, the cabin is largely similar to other Focus models, safe for the durable cloth trim, scuff plates and Nordic Blue stitching on the seats, steering wheel, dashboard and doors.

Like the regular Focus range, the Active comes with a comprehensive suite of Drive Assist Technology, including Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Dynamic Brake Support, Emergency Brake Light Flashing and Lane Keeping Aid with Lane Departure Warning.

As befitting its adventurous outlook, the Active comes with two unique Drive Modes – Slippery and Trail Modes – in addition to the standard Normal, Eco and Sport.

Slippery Mode is designed to bring increased confidence on low grip surfaces such as snow and ice, while Trail Mode is intended to help maintain momentum on soft, deformable surfaces like a sandy beach or powdery dirt road.

The Focus Active is powered by the same 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder petrol engine as the regular hatch delivering 134kW/240Nm. It is married to an eight-speed automatic and rated at a claimed 6.4L/100km in combined fuel economy.