Ford Focus Gets Turbodiesel Engine & Dual Clutch Gearbox

The Ford Focus turbodiesel is here, powered by a 2.0-litre Duratorq engine with 134 bhp at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm at 2000 rpm (340 Nm over-boost). Paired to a six-speed Powershift dual-clutch transmission, the engine sends power to the ground via the two front wheels. Fuel economy and 0-100 km/h time are claimed as 17.2 km/litre and 9.9 seconds, respectively.

By comparison, the 2.0-litre Duratec engine produces 143 bhp at 6000 rpm and 185 Nm at 4500 rpm. Despite the higher peak power output, the petrol engine has much less torque, a parameter that plays a far greater role than power when it comes to drivability. Not helping the petrol engine's performance is the dated four-speed automatic transmission.

Equipment level wise, the turbodiesel Focus gets an allergy tested leather interior and a power-adjustable driver seat that the petrol Focus makes do without. Other standard items include 16" alloy wheels, electrically adjustable and foldable side mirrors, one-touch up/down and anti-jam power windows, steering wheel audio controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, and in-dash 6-disc CD-changer with 6 speakers.

Safety equipments include dual airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP).

Compared against the petrol Focus priced at RM 112,888 (OTR without insurance, road tax & registration), the turbodiesel Focus costs a premium at RM 128,888 (OTR with insurance).