Ford Drops Top on European Focus C-C
If going fast is a priority, unfortunately, the Focus C-C won’t be right for you; the 200-hp VW EOS 2.0T, or the even faster 220-hp Volvo C70 T5 are much more efficient hair-do spoiling tools. Interestingly, the engine featured in the top of the line C70 T5 is available in the ‘hot’ European Focus ST220 hatchback. The engine range in the Ford is limited to just three engines that include a 100-horsepower 1.6-litre inline-four, a 2.0-litre inline-four with 145 horses, and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel that makes 136 horsepower. These somewhat small powerplants are further hindered by 200 kg (441 lbs) of hardtop roofing, electrical motors, wiring, and extra chassis bracing in place. As far as the Focus goes, it’s better to just drop the top and take it easy.
To make matters confusing, Pininfarina builds both the Focus and the C70. Yes, the company in charge of assembling bodies for Ferrari played a big role in engineering, developing and assembling both cars. It’s worth noting that the C70 is 100 percent Swedish; it’s assembled from start to finish in the new Pininfarina-Volvo assembly plant in Uddevalla, Sweden. The Focus, on the other hand, is built in Pininfarina’s home-base factory in Turin, Italy, with core parts flown in from the European Focus’ main assembly plant in Germany. The Focus C-C takes over the production space left over by the soon to be finished Ford StreetKa.
Alas, despite its clever roof, relaxing styling, and high-quality look, the Ford Focus Coupe-Convertible will not be sold in North America. It’s a shame too, because the market could certainly do with a four-season convertible as laid back as this.