The all-new Ford Focus has been awarded the maximum five-star safety rating by independent crash test authority Euro NCAP – one of the first vehicles to be awarded the highest rating under new, more stringent Euro NCAP testing protocols.
Focus delivers sophisticated features designed to help prevent or mitigate the impact of an accident, including Ford’s Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection – commended by Euro NCAP – which can detect people in or near the road ahead, or who may cross the vehicle’s path. The system automatically applies the brakes if it detects a potential collision and the driver does not respond to warnings; can now also detect cyclists; and functions in the dark using light from the headlamps.
Euro NCAP awarded high scores to Focus for both adult and child occupant protection – supported by a 40 per cent increase in front crash load capability from Ford’s all-new C2 architecture, and a body structure comprising 33 per cent ultra-high strength and press-hardened boron steels. Focus also achieved maximum scores in tests designed to replicate car-to-car side impacts.
“Think back to when you took your driving test, and how hard you had to concentrate to be safe on the road. Driving hasn’t become any less demanding – we have become more accustomed to pressure. Technologies like Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection will reduce the demand on drivers, helping them focus their attention and be more confident at the wheel,” said Helmut Reder, Ford Focus global vehicle line director.
The new Focus will go on sale in Canada later this year, but only in the Active trim (pictured)