| It's been around for six years and four million units are on the road. The Ford Focus was quite radical to look at when it was first launched with its much touted New Edge design. |
| The design was considered so radical that Ford kept the Escort alive till the Focus gained acceptance. This time, with the second generation Focus, New Edge has lost some of its edge "� for the better, we feel. Ford Europe's volume model is now more muscular, chunky and athletic. The new Focus makes it debut in three formats "� three-door, five-door and estate. |
| The Focus-based C-Max MPV will also share the spotlight. We feel the sedan version will follow later, as the Chinese market wants it bad. Ford's new 115 bhp 1600cc Duratec Ti-VCT engine "� with twin independent variable camshaft technology "� is part of the engine line-up, which includes 80 bhp 1400cc, 100 bhp 1600cc and 145 bhp 2000cc petrol units. The diesel options include 109 bhp 1600cc and 135 bhp 2000cc Duratorq TDCi common-rail units. There are a host of gearboxes on offer too. |
| CR-V goes butch |
| Honda's soft-roader, the CR-V, was perceived as... er, too soft. So it has been through a comprehensive revision. The front and rear bumpers are more tough-looking, a new headlamp cluster makes an appearance, the taillamps get clear indicator covers and 16-inch wheels are now standard. |
| The interiors have also been thoroughly revamped, and like the Suzuki Grand Vitara, the main instrumentation is a dark panel which comes alive when the ignition is switched on. |
| But the most important addition to the CR-V is a new engine option and it drinks diesel! Yes, Honda's famous 2200cc CDTi engine is available in the CR-V. With a maximum output of 140 bhp at 4000 revs and 34 kgm of torque from just 2000 onwards, the diesel-engined CR-V promises great driveability and fuel efficiency. |
| A new close-ratio six-speed manual transmission has also been introduced. How soon do we get it here, Honda? |
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