Ford has introduced a new 48V mild-hybrid Focus to the range, complete with cylinder deactivation, which together can improve fuel economy by up to 17%.

The new car is available from £23,610 and features a 1.0-litre EcoBoost Hybrid producing 155hp with 116g/km CO2 emissions (WLTP). The car maker says that represents a 17% fuel efficiency improvement compared with the outgoing equivalent combination of 150hp 1.5‑litre EcoBoost petrol engine and six-speed manual transmission on the NEDC test cycle. Fuel economy is rated at 4.57l/100km.

The car also features a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and will later this year be improved further with Local Hazard Information via connected car technology.

Local Hazard Information notifications are delivered independent of sat-nav – sourced from local authorities, emergency services, and driving data from other vehicles connected to “the cloud”.

Notifications of hazards including road works; broken down vehicles; animals, pedestrians and objects in the carriageway; and even hazardous driving conditions are delivered to the vehicle over-the-air, giving drivers advanced warning of developing situations beyond their field of vision.

“What makes Local Hazard Information different is that it is the cars that are connected – via the Internet of Things. There is no reliance on third party apps,” said Joerg Beyer, executive director, Engineering, Ford of Europe. “This is a significant step forward. Warnings are specific, relevant and tailored to try to help improve your specific journey.”

A new Focus Zetec Edition variant includes a wireless charging pad and navigation for the SYNC 3 voice-activated connectivity system with 8-inch touchscreen, all designed to appeal to business drivers. Front and rear parking sensors and electric folding mirrors are also fitted as standard.

Focus ST-Line Edition and Focus Active Edition now also come with additional standard equipment: auto-dimming rear-view mirror; rain-sensing wipers; and keyless entry.