2016 Ford Focus:: Australian range adds Sync 3 infotainment, new tech packs
A number of key technology enhancements to the 2016 Ford Focus range, which the car maker has dubbed a model-year 2016.75 change, have been announced for the Australian market.
Available from July, the updates will see the small Ford Focus become the brand's first model sold in Australia to offer Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment platform as standard on all variants.
The move to Sync 3 means a new interface for the range’s existing standard-fit 8.0-inch display, enhanced communications functions, and compatibility with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto platforms.
Highlights of the Sync 3 system include ‘at-a-glance’ phone access, audio and navigation, along with a fixed home button in the top-left corner to return to the main screen.
The display now also ensures that new enlarged buttons for Audio, Climate, Phone, Navigation, Apps & Settings are visible at all times, while unique daytime and night-time views are also available to choose from.
Sync 3 will not be available as an update to existing owners, due to its reliance on upgraded touchscreen hardware needed for the system’s pinch and swipe gestures - similar to those available on smartphones.
The Focus follows Ford’s upgraded 2017 Mustang range in gaining Sync 3 in Australia, although a long waiting list on the latter means the former will be the first Sync 3-enabled range to reach local roads.
Ford notes, however, that the Focus ST hot-hatch and initial deliveries of the new Focus RS will still feature the older Sync 2 system, with Sync 3 not scheduled to be available in the fast pair until September.
Technology and Sport Executive packs added
The updated “2016.75” Focus range also picks up new options packs, in the form of two Technology packs split across the Trend, Sport and Titanium model grades, along with a Sports Executive pack for Sport and Titanium models.
In Trend and Sport models, the $2000 Technology pack adds Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Departure Warning, Driver Impairment Monitor, Adaptive Cruise Control and Active City Stop, along with Blind Spot detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Auto High Beam Control.
Trend models optioned with the Technology pack will also gain a leather steering wheel as part of the deal.
For the top-shelf Titanium model, the $1500 Technology pack adds Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Departure Warning, Driver Impairment Monitor, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Auto High Beam Control.
As with last year's update, Titanium models already have Active City Stop and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert fitted as standard.
An $1800 Sports Executive pack will also be offered, adding a sunroof and bi-xenon headlights (including static cornering lamps) for Sport and Titanium models.
Pricing across the range remains unchanged from current 2016 model pricing.
The Focus range was last updated in October last year, with the line-up gaining a new look, a new turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine, and new features.
Note: 2016 range pictured.
2016 Ford Focus pricing (before on-road costs):
Hatch
1.5 L Trend manual - $23,390
1.5 L Trend auto - $24,390
1.5 L Sport manual - $26,490
1.5 L Sport auto - $27,490
1.5 L Titanium auto - $32,690
2.0 ST manual - $38,990
Sedan
1.5 L Trend auto - $24,390
1.5 L Titanium auto - $32,690
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