New Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet reflects Ford's acclaimed driving quality philosophy in the same way its core Focus range siblings do. The model's suspension has been engineered with proven Focus components as a basis, but with specific tuning that takes into account a completely new body structure with different weight factors.

"Simply adopting a 'plug and play" solution was not feasible for this project. Ford has an excellent reputation for driving quality, and we want to do justice to this with every new model", says Woehler.

The chassis includes reliable core Focus components like the front axle with MacPherson strut suspension, Ford's Control Blade independent rear suspension, and a low friction steering system. Wolfgang Helbert, team leader in Woehler's group, was also responsible for fine-tuning the sporty Ford Focus ST : "This experience was of great help because in some areas I could work with ST settings without letting go of the Coupe-Cabriolet's individual characteristics."

For additional stiffness, Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet uses an extra cross-member across the bulkhead between the MacPherson struts and bushings taken from the ST rack. To match the vehicle's perfectly balanced weight (front 53%: rear 47%), the rear suspension was also derived from the Focus ST design, but is tuned towards a more comfortable setting.

For the front gas-filled dampers, a new piston valve has been adopted while the rear axle uses compact mono tube dampers. Drivers will appreciate minimised noise levels and enhanced body control.

By comparison with the Focus sedan, both front and rear dampers have been stiffened by 30 percent. Front and rear stabilisers were aligned in accordance to the springs, and have been stiffened by 8 percent at the front and 33 percent at the rear. Additional ST-proven spring aids, strut mounts, and new 16- and 17-inch wheels with 205x55 and 205x50 tyres respectively add to the Focus Coupe-Cabriolet's agility signature.

Electro-hydraulic power-assisted steering is available with both the 2.0-litre Duratec and Duratorq TDCi engines. The proven EHPAS system offers speed-related steering effort and reduced fuel consumption. New software specially written for use in Focus Coupe-Cabriolet provides more direct steering feedback.

In addition to this essential suspension tuning, a new sport suspension has been developed. This comes as standard with the Sport Pack and is optionally available for Titanium models. It features more highly tuned springs, dampers and anti-roll bar to provide more sportiness. When specified, the Focus open air cruiser is 10mm lower at the front and 8mm at the rear axle, yet still comfortable enough for relaxed cruising.



Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet Powertrain

"Before choosing engines for the new Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet, we listened to the wishes and needs of this subsegment's customers. With our acclaimed TDCi power units available, we believed it was crucial that we offered them access to this efficient technology for our stylish grand tourer."
Norbert Steffens, Manager C-Segment Powertrain

Up to three proven Ford powertrains from the Focus range are offered in the new Coupe-Cabriolet model - two Duratec petrol engines, and one Duratorq TDCi diesel.

Ford offered diesel open-top motoring once before, however. In 1995, the Escort TD Cabriolet was launched, and customers were surprised to find that diesel engine torque reserves were well suited for relaxed Cabrio cruising. The new Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet's TDCi engine takes this relationship to the next level.

previous page | go to page 4