Ford announces plans for 'Europe's most efficient family car'

(Ford)

Ford is to launch ultra-efficient versions of two new models in Europe next year, promising to bring the continent its most efficient non-hybrid family car.

The US giant said September 6 that it will debut the new Focus ECOnetic and Fiesta ECOnetic at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, before an official launch in mid-2012.

The models, which Ford describes as "packed with advanced fuel saving technology" will bring the proportion of Ford cars bearing the ECOnetic badge up to half by the end of next year.

The new Focus, an improved version of the model already available around the world, will be able to manage 3.4l/100km, which Ford says will make it the most efficient C-class car in Europe, beating rivals such as the Opel Astra and Volkswagen Golf.

Using a 1.6-liter TDCi diesel engine producing 105PS, it will emit 89g/km using a new NOx trap and particulate filter, along with a new 'active grille shutter' which shuts off engine vents when they are not required, in order to reduce aerodynamic drag.

Similar technology will also be used in the new Fiesta, which manages 3.3 l/100km and 87g/km emissions thanks to a new start-stop system, included for the first time with the popular compact model.

Both will be on show at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, which runs September 15-25 in Frankfurt, Germany.

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