Following the sensational...

Following the sensational spyshots of develч­opment mules we brought you in Issue 901, we have the clearest pictures yet of how the blue oval"s most exciting entrant into the off-roader market will look.

One of the most important cars on Ford"s product plan, the Focus 4x4 will compete with forthcoming models such as the Vauxhall Antara and VW"s Tiguan, as well as existing SUVs, in-ч­cluding the Toyota RAV4.

It is designed to take advantage of growing demand for off-roaders, and is the first from Ford since the demise of its Maverick, which was axed in 2002. As you will see from our images - which have been produced using exclusive insider information - the 4x4 is inspired by the S-MAX MPV and the next-generation Mondeo.

The off-roader features the now-familiar split grille, bold headlights and a raised bonnet with prominent ridges running to the A-pillars. To give it a tough look, a lower protective metal kickplate has been added, along with a mesh upper grille.

Chunky, extended wheelarches and a raised ride height boost the beefy stance. But in profile, it"s clear that the 4x4 is still very car-like, with a sporty, curved roofline set off by chrome roof rails, plus a neat, S-MAX-derived tail. The newcomer is the last varч­iant on the current Focus chassis, and completes the line-up of three and five-door, estate and coupé-cabriolet models.

The platform has been modified to include four-wheel drive, plus technology such as new traction and stability control systems from the forthcoming Mondeo.

Combined with 4x4 know-how from Ford subsidiary Land Rover - which last week launched the Freeч­lander 2 - this should ensure the Focus off-roader is capable on tricky terrain, although it will priч­marily be biased towards comfort on tarmac. As a result, buyers can expect the car to have impressive handling for its class. The driving experience is likely to match that of the C-MAX, with sharp steering, good agility and a controlled, compliant ride. Inside, the Focus 4x4 is set to share its cabin with the hatchback, too. Howч­ever, tougher materials will be used for the boot floor.

Smaller than the Antara but similar in size to the Tiguan, it will seat five and is likely to make use of the C-MAX"s clever sliding rear bench, which allows the two outer chairs to move fore and aft, varying legroom.

Under the bonnet, power is to come from a range of engines in the current C-MAX line-up. These will include 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol and turbodiesel units with manual and auto transmissions.

However, a flagship could use the even more powerful motor from the sporty Focus ST, and one has already been undergoing testing.

After making its official public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March next year, the Focus 4x4 should reach Ford"s showч­rooms in this country toч­wards the end of 2007. Prices are expected to start from around чЈ16,000.