Ford to offer 4 vehicles that earn 40 mpg next year
The 2012 Ford Focus, which hits dealerships early next year, is projected to get an estimated 40 mpg on the highway. If that holds to be true, Ford will have four vehicles in its lineup that produce 40 mpg or more in 2011.
Besides the 2012 Focus, three 2011 vehicles – including the Fiesta, Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid – have certified 2011 EPA ratings of 40 mpg highway and 41 mpg city.
“A few years ago, Ford committed to making fuel economy a top priority companywide,” Barb Samardzich, Ford’s vice president of powertrain engineering, said in a statement. “Our hybrid vehicles led the way, and this new wave of powerful, refined gasoline engines is reasserting the company’s leadership position.”
According to the 2011 EPA Fuel-Economy Guide, no other full-line automaker offers four models with ratings of 40 mpg or more.
Refresher: The 2012 Ford Focus is powered by 2.0L DOHC inline 4-clyinder unit with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), direct gasoline injection and E85 flex fuel capability. The engine produces 160-hp and 146 lb-ft of torque. The 2012 Focus is offered in S, SE, SEL and Titanium trim-levels with prices starting at $16,270.
2012 Ford Focus:
– By: Omar Rana
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
