03 Mar 09 15:11
Here's an advance look at the next-generation Ford Focus and, most pertinently, the replacement for the current Focus C-Max compact MPV. The iosis Max shows off Ford's thinking for its next 'family' of C-sector cars, as well as upcoming new technologies.
'The iosis Max marks the next stage in the evolution of kinetic design', says Ford of Europe's design director Martin Smith, and according to Smith, 'showcases a number of affordable petrol engine technologies that will make a difference to the environment and our customers' pockets'.
Ford is to bring its EcoBoost engines to Europe next year: small, economical but turbocharged units including the 1.6-litre, 180bhp four-cylinder fitted in this concept along with Ford's PowerShift automated-manual gearbox and a fuel-saving stop-start system. The iosis Max could theoretically emit just 125g/km of carbon dioxide, says Ford, as well as use 20% less fuel compared to a conventional non-turbo 180bhp engine.
There are shades of the new Fiesta in this concept, as well as the continuation of the 'kinetic design' themes explored in the earlier iosis and iosis X. The three-bar, chrome-trimmed grille is new, however, as is the side profile and window line, with C-pillars shaped to direct airflow for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, and the one-piece full-length glass roof. There are new graphics for the translucent-lensed front projector-beam headlights and rear lights, LED strips and new lightweight two-piece 19" alloys.
A similarly dynamic approach has been applied to the interior, with sculpted instrument panel surfaces and a curved plexiglass centre console which runs to the rear; the console incorporates touch-screen controls for the audio/communications systems plus an iDrive-style rotary button and mouse-style function, and is supported on a central 'spine' to which the four seats are also attached. Functions such as wipers and indicators could be controlled by voice commands. The floating seats - with clear space underneath them - have a visible carbon fibre structure with nylon mesh panels and covers. Bright details in cadmium yellow complement the grey and greenish tones - and the bright 'Limelight' exterior paint.
Useful touches include a two-piece tailgate, and the lack of B-pillars allows an uninterrupted loading aperture to the side. The rear doors slide backwards, rather than swinging out on hinges, allowing for easier entry in confined spaces.
The iosis Max is clearly a well thought-out concept well on the way to becoming a final-production car: it already incorporates details such as a pop-up bonnet for pedestrian protection, meeting legislative requirements, and whilst some details such as the seat structures and rear-view cameras are unlikely to make it to the real deal, this is probably pretty close to fruition. The new Focus and C-Max are to be conceived as global cars, and the Americans in particular are eyeing this iosis Max with interest.
Check out the rest of our Geneva Motor Show coverage.
