MI Ford Dealers to Explain 40 MPG Achievable Only in Special Edition Ford Focus

March 2, 2011 - PRLog -- DETROIT, M.I. – MI Ford dealers want to share the news with Ford Focus fans that the fuel efficient sedan has been certified by the Environmental Protection Agency to be able to reach 40 mpg highway and 28 mpg city. Buyers should know that this does not include the regular model, only the Ford Focus SFE special edition.
"Our customers tell us that fuel economy is the top reason for purchasing a Focus," said Ford Motors Group Vice President of Global Product Development Derrick Kuzak in a press release. "The all-new Focus meets that demand with great fuel economy, class-leading technologies and features, exceptional standards of craftsmanship and driving dynamics typically reserved for larger, more expensive vehicles."
The regular Ford Focus model achieves 38 mpg highway and 28 mpg city, which means the SFE needed further features to add the 2 extra mpg. Features like active air grille shutters and aero covers for the special 16” steel wheels make the SFE more aerodynamic. These added characteristics do, however, add a higher cost to the price tag of the SFE. At this point, the only regular model that achieves 40 mpg highway without any additions is the Hyundai Elantra.
The Ford Focus SFE (Super Fuel Economy) sports a 2.0-liter direct injection inline-four engine that produces 160 horsepower, which is higher than its competitors, the Hyundai Elantra at 148 or the Chevrolet Cruze at 138 horsepower. The SFE also offers a dual-clutch PowerShift transmission which allows for smoother shifting from one gear to the next.
Interior technology includes SYNC with MyFord technology, which enables a voice-controlled system for vehicle functions, Bluetooth capability, MP3 player connectivity and other external media and applications. Although MyFord is rated highly by MI Ford dealers, some critics think MyFord needs additional upgrades.
[Rewind: MI Ford Dealers Hear Bad News: Consumer Reports Dissuades Shoppers From MyFord Technology]
MI Ford dealers may have competition, but the Ford Focus SFE does offer customers the fuel efficiency that is steadily increasing to be an important factor when purchasing a vehicle.
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