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FORD is to introduce a facelifted Focus later this year which offers more driver aids, more fuel-efficient engines but at no extra cost to the buyer.

Due in November and priced from 13,995 the entry level car will cost the same as today but the range-topping versions will be 100 less than the current equivalents.

The new Focus is the first Ford to offer Perpendicular Parking, an additional hands-free parking technology to help drivers reverse into spaces alongside other vehicles. The current Focus debuted Active Park Assist that, at the push of a button, uses ultrasonic sensors to locate parking spaces and steer the vehicle while the driver controls the accelerator and brake. The addition of new sensors to the rear enables Perpendicular Parking to operate in the same way.

Other new aids include Cross Traffic Alert that warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles about to pass behind them and Park-Out Assist which helps drivers as they exit a parallel parking space. After the driver has chosen either the left or right hand side, the system operates the steering while the driver operates the accelerator and brake

It will also be offered with Fords second generation connectivity system which has a high-resolution, eight-inch colour touch screen and voice control to access audio, navigation, climate control and mobiles phones.

Fords innovative MyKey aid for novice drivers will also appear on the new Focus. First seen on the Fiesta it lets owners programme a key usually for younger drivers that restricts the top speed, reduces the maximum volume of the audio system, and can disable it altogether if the driver and passengers are not using safety belts.

Under the bonnet will be a range of even more fuel-efficient engines. For example the 120PS 1.5-litre diesel engine will offer a 10 per cent fuel economy improvement with CO2 emissions reduced from 109g/km to 98g/km bringing it below the threshold for road tax. A new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine delivers the same power as the outgoing 1.6-litre unit yet with fuel economy improved by seven per cent and lower CO2 emissions. The diesel range, priced from 17,995, returns 10 per cent better fuel economy than today.

Mark Ovenden, chairman and managing director, Ford of Britain, said: "The Ford Focus is the UKs favourite family car so the launch of the new model is an exciting time. With unmatched levels of technology and impressive fuel economy, combined with Fords traditional driving dynamics and competitive pricing, we believe that the new car will not only delight our existing customers but also expand the appeal of the Focus brand.

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More driver- and eco-friendly Ford Focus on the way