SPY PICS: Next-gen Ford Focus looks production-ready

Notwithstanding the promotional graphics and likely heavy photoshopping in the grille area, these so-called ‘spy’ shots give a pretty good look at the next-generation Ford Focus, which won’t likely commence production until late in 2018.

Although we’ve said previously that Focus production is not due to begin until some time in 2018, the fully-trimmed car show here would suggest a production sign-off might not actually be very far away. Unless the multi-coloured car is merely being readied as a teaser for the Detroit motor show in January 2018.

Given the Focus is manufactured in various Ford plants around the globe (Australian market Focus models come from either Thailand or Germany, depending on variant), it’s quite possible the new model will appear at different times in different places.

Our belief is that the all-new Focus is already close to production-ready status at the Thailand plant, which suggests a late-2018 date for Australian introduction.

Regardless of how Ford plans the international roll-out, at least we know from these latest photos -- which appear to have been snapped in North America -- how the next Focus will look.

We’ve already said the platform on which the Focus will be built allows for a bigger car, which is certainly welcome because the current model isn’t generous for those in the rear.

And, while the styling could be described as evolutionary, it is significant to note Ford designers seem to be heading in the direction of the fluidic sculpture heavily used by any number of rival small-car contenders.

Note the rising curves in the front and rear profiles, and the more flowing shapes in the side window lines, where the swept-back upper door opening promises a bit more space for passengers entering and leaving the back seat.

Up-front, the grille, though similarly-themed to today’s car, has a less grumpy look about it.

Whether or not Ford stylists have continued with the tricky integrated tail light theme used in the current model remains to be seen – although the close-up pic of the new car’s right rear corner suggests something could well be going on.

It’s expected the next Focus will continue with the same range of engines – meaning the 1.5-litre EcoBoost for mainstream models. ST and RS variants, said to be secure in the new lineup but probably launching later, will employ the 2.0-litre (ST) and 2.3-litre (RS) powerplants.

There’s also little doubt that Ford will continue with the current choice of six-speed manual or conventional auto gearboxes.