Ford Focus Econetic (2012) first official pictures

Ford has released details and pictures of the 2012 Focus Econetic, the eco-efficiency variant of the new Ford Focus range with a hybrid-beating 80mpg claimed.

Ford makes some impressive promises about the efficiency of the new Focus Econetic. The car has yet to be officially homolgated, but Ford has announced it expects 80mpg, and a hybrid-harassing 95g/km from the Focus Econetic's Duratorq TDCI direct-injection turbodiesel engine.

Handy improvements over the just-released 109g/km and 67mpg Focus TDCI. The Econetic-spec engine will feature a new injection system, turbocharger, charge air cooling and friction reduction over the existing diesel powerplant. The 1.6-litre engine will put out 104bhp in Econetic tune, and be coupled to an updated version of the six-speed Durashift dual-clutch transmission.

It's a standard-looking five-door hatchback in the pictures, although you'll also be able to get an Econetic estate. Ford has massaged the aerodynamics of the Econetic, fitting low-drag (and low-thrills) wheel covers, underbody shielding and air deflectors. 

There's an Active Grille Shutter system which can alter the air intake aperture for greater efficiency, closing un-needed cooling area when possible to reduce drag.

Automatic engine stop-start, smart regenerative battery charging, electric power steering, selectable Eco mode and optimal shift indicator messages on the dashboard.

Introduction of the new Focus Econetic is scheduled for 'early 2012'.

By Mark Hamilton