This update is substantial and includes dual screens that look like Mercedes-esque.
In 2002, the long-standing Escort name was lost in Europe. Ford’s original Focus came out a year later in North America. In 2014, the Blue Oval took the famed title for a small sedan in China that was based on the second-generation Focus. In 2018, it was refreshed and now a more extensive facelift is being offered in the People’s Republic.
Although it’s still a Focus, Ford has made great efforts to modernize the design. The cabin has seen more significant changes, with the CN-spec Escort getting a pair fully digital screens like the Equator three row SUV. Although they are smaller than 12.3 inches, they still exude the same Mercedes-esque feel.
The new Escort measures 4.63 meters (182.2 inches) in length, 1.82 metres (71.6 inches) in width, and 1.49 m (58.6 inch) high. It has a wheelbase of 2.68 meters (105.5 inches). It is slightly smaller than the fourth-generation Focus Sedan, which is available on select European markets.
The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine under the hood sends 122 horsepower to front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission or an automatic. Buyers can choose from a standard set of 15-inch wheels or an optional set of 16-inch alloys for higher trim levels. The 2021 Escort does a great job hiding its past by using the same design cues and tech found in the most recent Ford models for China.
Ford continues to sell the midsize Mondeo in China, where the Escort has been redesigned. The Fusion died last year in America, and the Escort will be extinct in Europe next. The fullsize Taurus, Ford’s flagship sedan, is still available in China as it was in other markets.