SDAC launches Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi
When we pitted the Ford Focus against the Peugeot 308 Turbo last year, the Focus was, shall we say, hopelessly outgunned by the 308. While the Focus had clearly the better balanced chassis, its powertrain combo proved clearly insufficient to get the best of its world-class underpinnings.
To recap, the 2.0-litre Duratec engine produces 143hp @ 6,000rpm, and twists out 185Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. Amongst most 2.0-litre C-segment competitors, that’s barely enough to keep pace. A hesitant 4-speed automatic transmission certainly did not help improve matters either.
That shortcoming is now addressed with Sime Darby Auto ConneXion Sdn Bhd (SDAC) introducing a diesel variant of the Focus – the 2.0 TDCi. Compared to the petrol variant, the TDCi produces 9hp less, with peak output at a modest 134hp. However, it gets a useful 135Nm peak torque increase to 320Nm, which can go up to 340Nm in brief over-boost periods. Very delicious sounding figures; we hope to see this engine going into the Mondeo as well!
Sending power to the front wheels is the 6-speed Powershift twin clutch transmission. Using this powertrain setup, Ford claims a fuel consumption rating of 5.8 l/100km tested according to 1999/100/EC standards. The century sprint can be done in 9.9 seconds. We averaged 11 seconds when we tested the petrol version.
“The 2.0-litre DuraTorq Turbodiesel engine delivers best in class performance, engineering and safety. Combined with better cost and fuel efficiency, the Focus TDCi model promises no compromise to its driving performance,” said David Westerman, Asia Pacific Regional Manager at Ford Export and Growth Operations.
“In the ASEAN markets where diesel and petrol fuel are near price parity, the Focus TDCi’s DuraTorq Turbodiesel engine delivers dynamic and efficiency advantages. The Ford Focus TDCi, which is biodiesel compatible, offers a more cost-efficient choice for consumers due to its low fuel consumption,” explained Westerman.
On the equipment front, the Focus TDCi gets rear Parking Aid sensors, one-touch power window control, power adjustable driver seat, MP3-compatible 6-CD changer, and 6 speakers. Standard safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Programme. Also equipped, and this is actually necessary, is a proper Traction Control System (TCS) to keep the 320Nm flowing through the front wheels in check.
“The introduction of the sporty new Focus TDCi is another testament of our commitment to delivering a world-class lineup of Ford vehicles, and we are confident it will garner strong appeal among Malaysian consumers who appreciate style and driving performance,” said Hazem Abd Rahman, Managing Director of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.
The Focus TDCi is available only in 5-door hatch bodystyle, and goes for RM128,888.00 on-the-road inclusive of insurance.
Some may find this pricey, but we think it’s a good deal. On paper at least, this finally looks like a powertrain which would do justice to the Focus’ talented chassis. We wonder if the 308 is game for a rematch…
Pictures: Official SDAC release
Editor’s Note (15/3/2010): When published, this article stated that the Focus TDCi’s price of RM128,888 was retail excluding registration and insurance. It has since been pointed out to us that RM128,888 is actually OTR with insurance, and we have amended the article accordingly. We regret any potential confusion caused by the error, but in some way, this was a pleasant surprise for us too!