Ford introduced its 2006 Ford Focus ZX4 ST. This Ford’s zippy 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine that develops 151 horsepower at a spirited 5,750 rpm. Coupled with a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission Good four-cylinder engines like this are great to drive because they’re responsive as well as thrifty; the engine is EPA-estimate rated at 31 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg in the city. The Focus’s alloy engine design contributes to the car’s low 2,718-lb. curb weight—another performance advantage. Its front-wheel drive maximizes traction across a broad range of road conditions, and its compact layout helps free up interior space.

Focus buyers will get one of two engines, depending on the trim level. Most models use a 2.0-liter/136-horse four, sourced from Mazda. It’s well mannered, but not a rip-snorting performer. The other available powerplant is an enthusiastic 2.3-liter four, another Mazda engine, which packs 151 horsepower. The base engine can be combined with a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual, the latter offering quicker acceleration and better fuel economy. The 2.3-liter powerplant comes only with the five-speed manual. Fuel economy for both engines is not as good as that of the thriftiest small cars.

The 2006 ZX4 ST has standard ABS and available traction control. Admittedly, these features are most often useful in areas with poor driving conditions—dirty roadways, rainy seasons, etc.—but even drivers in the Sunbelt states should relish the safety that these systems provide. The Focus ZX4’s ABS and traction control are computerized systems designed to help the driver maintain control in slippery conditions. By continually monitoring the rotational speed of the wheels, the computer can quickly determine if any wheel locks up under braking or if one of the front wheels suddenly loses grip (i.e., wheel spin) under acceleration. If this happens, the system automatically compensates via brake and engine torque control to restore traction. The Focus ZX4 ST also includes a performance-tuned four-wheel independent suspension. Combined with power rack-and-pinion steering, sporty-looking five-spoke 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels and aggressive 50-series Pirelli all-season tires, the suspension helps the ZX4 ST turn in quickly and grip the road tenaciously. It likewise features front and rear stabilizer bars to keep body roll in check.

Ford Focus providing ample room for passengers. Ford designers settled on a 102.9-inch wheelbase for the Focus, which provides crisp cornering together with ample door width, good entry and egress, and agreeable interior space. In fact, the ZX4 ST offers an impressive 40.7 inches of front legroom, a suitable 37.6 inches of rear legroom and generous headroom all around. This makes it comfortable even for tall drivers, while still accommodating adult rear-seat passengers as necessary. The placement of the wheel, pedals, shift-lever and ancillary controls is first-rate, and the standard multi-adjustable cloth seat is supportive and comfortable. Ford were the first of the major manufacturers to realize these and designed the original Focus to suit drivers of all sizes with wider opening doors and more headroom than the class norm. The multi-adjustable steering column helps in ensuring a comfortable driving position.

New ‘06 features include a standard CD/MP3 format player, while the optional six-disc audio systems now have steering wheel-mounted controls. For the true audiophiles, a Sony audiophile system is also available. Its dynamic body styling is enhanced for ‘06 with a pair of exciting new Street Appearance Packages, while a stylish and comfortable interior rewards driver and passengers alike with a high-quality environment.

Filed under: Ford Cars in India