Andy RussellThe next-generation Ford Focus makes its worldwide debut today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, providing customers with more affordable technologies and features than ever in this segment, as well as detailed craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality.Andy Russell

The next-generation Ford Focus makes its worldwide debut today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, providing customers with more affordable technologies and features than ever in this segment, as well as detailed craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality.

Both the four-door saloon and five-door hatchback body styles are previewed before production starts for Europe and North America late in 2010 and market launch early in 2011.

The new Focus will be nearly identical in all markets, with 80pc of parts common around the world.

'The new Ford Focus is a clear demonstration that our ONE Ford strategy is providing global consumers with great products that harness the best of Ford Motor Company,' said Alan Mulally, Ford's president and chief executive officer. 'The efficiencies generated by our new global C-car platform will enable us to provide Ford Focus customers with an affordable product offering quality, fuel efficiency, safety and technology beyond their expectations.'

The two models share a sporty and dynamic character, marking the next evolution of Ford's acclaimed kinetic design form language.

This dynamic quality is reinforced by the distinctive design of the interior. The new Focus has a modern, cockpit-style interior, with the centre console wrapped around the driver. A key element of the interior is the quality of craftsmanship. The cabin's bold and contemporary graphics, the sculptured shape of the soft-touch instrument panel and the choice of superior trim materials all help to give occupants the feeling that they are travelling in a premium-class car.

The engaging driver appeal of the new Ford Focus is magnified by a powertrain range that delivers spirited performance and targets outstanding levels of fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

The global powertrain line-up for the new Focus will include a range of state-of-the-art Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection (DI)engines - including the 1.6-litre unit in Europe and a choice of advanced and improved Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engines, all of which offer reductions in fuel consumption of between 10 and 20pc compared to the outgoing models.

The new Focus will go on sale in the UK in the first quarter of 2011.