Ford Focus Active – The hatch becomes a SUV.

The Ford Focus has taken a turn thanks to a new ‘Active’ model that will go on sale in 2019. The Active is essentially a SUV inspired take on the popular hatch. It will join the new ST-Line and Focus Trend.

“The Focus Active is a strong addition to the line-up and is a great match to the active lives of Australians,”said Kay Hart, President and CEO of Ford Australia and New Zealand. “The German-sourced Focus range now offers new variants including the ST-Line hatch, ST-Line wagon and Active hatch, all designed to offer greater versatility and adaptability.”

The Focus Active will start from $29,990 and clearly combines five-door hatchback looks with an elevated 34mm ride height. To add to the whole mini SUV thing, front and rear skid plates and silver inserts give the Active a new identity. The styling also has extended to a new front bumper, LED adaptive cornering fog lamps, a honeycomb grille and LED Daytime Running Lights.

There’s a host of technology onboard including Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection. Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system comes as standard via an 8.0-inch screen that includes a 180-degree split-view reversing camera.

Some driver assist technology is reserved for the options list such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCA) and Active Braking.

The interior has been updated with more space and decluttered dash layout. A new wireless charging pad has also been added for compatible smartphones. Power is delivered by a new 1.5L EcoBoost engine that produces 134kW/240Nm. It’s paired to an eight-speed automatic as standard. There’re also some new driving modes called ‘Slippery Mode’ and “Trail Mode’ for increased traction on snow, ice and sand. I love the look of it, we look forward to a drive in 2019!