Ford Focus is voted European Car of the Year 1999
COLOGNE, 17 November, 1998 -- The new Ford Focus has won the prestigious 'European Car of the Year' award, which is widely recognised as the most significant accolade in the European motor industry. A total of 55 leading motoring journalists from 21 countries vote annually for the award, which is given to 'the most outstanding new car sold in the European market'.President of Ford Automotive Operations and Chairman of Ford of Europe, Jac Nasser said "We at Ford are immensely proud of this award. When we launched the car, we said that Ford Focus represents the future for Ford. We wanted the Ford Focus to take us a step beyond the opposition, particularly in terms of design, package and driving dynamics. We regard this award as a strong endorsement of the new direction we have chosen to take."
The Ford Focus is the only car among the major competitors with a fully independent rear suspension system, and it has the stiffest, lightest body structure in its class. These two factors help give the Ford Focus an edge on driving dynamics. The lightweight structure also plays a part in providing class-leading fuel economy - which is 10 per cent better than the best of competition.
Ford Focus has a longer wheelbase than the competition, which - together with a high roofline - provides the most spacious interior package available without increasing the car's footprint. Ford also expects the new Ford Focus will have the lowest ownership costs in its class, six per cent better than the closest competitor.
Ford Focus is available in 3-door, 4-door, 5-door and Wagon bodystyles, with a range of efficient multi-valve engines with displacements of 1.4, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 litres, plus a 1.8 litre direct-injection turbo diesel.
Ford last won the European Car of the Year Award with the Mondeo in 1994, the car which in itself was the turning point in Ford's commitment to dynamic excellence. The Ford Scorpio secured the award in 1986 and the first front-wheel drive Ford Escort took the honours in 1981.
Paying tribute to the part played by Ford employees and suppliers in securing the award, Jim Donaldson, President of Ford of Europe, said "This award is not just for those involved directly in the design and development of the Ford Focus. Everyone can feel tremendous pride in this achievement, because it reflects the effort made by the whole Company to change the way in which we serve our customers in every aspect of our business."