Ford's celebrated compact car, the Focus hatchback, is concluding its production after more than two and a half decades. While its departure from the compact segment is notable, there are strong indications that the Focus designation is not vanishing permanently. Instead, it is poised for a reintroduction to the market, but in a significantly different form: as a sport utility vehicle, reflecting the prevailing trend in the automotive industry.
According to information from a reputable automotive publication, Ford intends to resurrect the Focus brand as a mid-size crossover, with a projected launch in 2027. This strategic pivot aligns with the evolving consumer preference for SUVs and crossovers. The new vehicle is anticipated to be manufactured at Ford's facility in Valencia, Spain, which boasts an annual production capacity of 300,000 units. The cessation of the current Focus production is scheduled for November, coinciding with the closure of Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany.
The forthcoming Focus SUV will not serve as a direct replacement for the European Kuga (known as the Escape in the United States), despite sharing a similar size. Instead, it will be marketed alongside the Kuga, offering diverse powertrain options, including hybrid and fully electric variants. It is speculated that the new Focus SUV may adopt the existing mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains currently utilized in the Kuga.
This new model will be constructed on Ford's C2 platform, a versatile architecture that underpins various Ford vehicles globally, such as the Bronco Sport and Maverick in the US, the Kuga in Europe, and the Mondeo sedan in China. The outgoing Focus hatchback also utilized this C2 platform, ensuring a degree of continuity in its foundational engineering.
For loyal enthusiasts of the Focus hatchback, its transformation into a crossover might be an unexpected development. However, this move is not unprecedented for Ford, which has previously revitalized iconic nameplates like the Capri and Puma by reintroducing them as electric crossovers in the European market. The Puma, in particular, has achieved remarkable success, becoming one of Ford's top-selling models in Europe, with over 64,000 units sold within the first five months of 2025. Similarly, the compact Kuga was a best-seller in Europe in 2024, with more than 105,000 units sold. If the new Focus SUV emulates the success of the Kuga, it is poised to achieve considerable popularity across Europe.
The automotive landscape continues its rapid evolution, with manufacturers increasingly adapting to market demands and consumer preferences. Ford's decision to transform the Focus into an SUV underscores the dominance of this vehicle segment and the company's commitment to innovation and market relevance. This strategic shift is not merely about changing a vehicle's body style; it represents a broader re-evaluation of product lines to maximize appeal and competitiveness in key global markets. As the industry moves towards electrification and diversified powertrains, the new Focus SUV, with its hybrid and electric options, is positioned to meet future mobility needs, potentially revitalizing a beloved nameplate for a new generation of drivers.