New Ford Focus Active adds SUV flavour to the range

The new Ford Focus Active is available to order now with a starting price of £21,900, undercutting rivals like the Skoda Karoq and SEAT Ateca by quite a way.

The Active version of the latest Focus represents Ford’s attempt to tap into buyer demand for cars with the style and higher seating position of SUVs and crossovers. As a result, the Active comes with a raised ride height, roof rails, 4x4 styling extras and two additional modes for the drive select system, designed for slippery conditions and off-road trails.

• Carbuyer’s full review of the new Ford Focus

There are four engines to choose from, comprising two petrols and two diesels. Petrol buyers can choose between the 123bhp 1.0-litre EcoBoost and the 148bhp 1.5-litre EcoBoost, while diesel options consist of the 118bhp 1.5-litre and the 148bhp 2.0-litre. The more powerful petrol engine will be the quickest Active model, while the 2.0-litre diesel will be most the economical, with claimed economy of 78.5mpg.

Buyers have a choice between six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic gearboxes.

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To set it aside from the standard Focus range and give it crossover appeal, the Active gets extra body mouldings, model-specific bumpers and alloy wheels, plus silver skid plates. Customers will also be able to opt for a roof in a contrasting colour.

The Active effectively becomes one of the range-topping Focus trim levels, so there’s plenty of standard equipment, whether you go for the standard Active or the more expensive Active X version. The interior features a leather steering wheel and gearknob, plus model-specific scuff plates and upholstery, with contrasting blue stitching.

Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system comes with an eight-inch colour touchscreen and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. FordPass Connect means you can use the car as a WiFi hotspot. A wireless charging pad is available as an option.

Safety and assistance tech includes adaptive cruise control, adaptive front lighting, active park assist, a head-up display and evasive steering assist.

The Ford Focus Active is available to order in hatchback and estate form now, with first deliveries scheduled for January 2019. The entry-level 1.0-litre petrol hatchback model has a starting price of £21,900, with the top-of-the-range 2.0-litre diesel Active X estate costing £29,250.

Tap the link for our driving review of the Ford Focus Active hatchback.