Exterior Design
The 2026 Ford Focus Active boasts a striking new exterior design that sets it apart from its predecessors. Its sleek and aerodynamic silhouette is accentuated by sharp lines and bold curves, giving it a dynamic and athletic stance.
The front fascia is dominated by a redesigned grille that features a honeycomb pattern and a prominent Ford logo. The headlights have been reshaped and now incorporate LED technology, providing improved visibility and a more modern look. The taillights have also been redesigned, with a distinctive C-shaped design that adds to the vehicle’s overall visual appeal.
Grille
The 2026 Focus Active’s grille has been redesigned with a honeycomb pattern that gives it a more aggressive and sporty look. The grille is larger than in previous models and is flanked by two sleek air intakes that enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency.
Headlights
The headlights of the 2026 Focus Active have been reshaped and now feature LED technology. The new headlights provide improved visibility and a more modern look. The headlights are also equipped with automatic high beams that switch to low beams when oncoming traffic is detected.
Taillights
The taillights of the 2026 Focus Active have been redesigned with a distinctive C-shaped design. The new taillights are more visible than in previous models and add to the vehicle’s overall visual appeal.
Interior Design
The 2026 Ford Focus Active boasts a completely redesigned interior that exudes sophistication and functionality. Gone are the days of bland and cramped cabins; the new Focus Active offers a spacious and inviting environment that enhances the driving experience.
The dashboard has undergone a significant transformation, featuring a sleek and modern design. The central display is now larger and positioned higher, providing an intuitive and distraction-free interface. The instrument cluster has also been redesigned, with crisp digital displays and customizable layouts that cater to the driver’s preferences.
The seats have been redesigned to provide optimal comfort and support. The front seats offer ample legroom and headroom, while the contoured design ensures a secure and comfortable driving position. The rear seats have been equally well-thought-out, with generous legroom and adjustable headrests for added comfort.
The overall layout of the cabin has been optimized for both practicality and style. The center console has been redesigned to provide ample storage space, while the cup holders and USB ports have been conveniently placed for easy access. The materials used throughout the interior are of high quality, creating a premium and inviting atmosphere.
Features and Technology
The 2026 Ford Focus Active is packed with cutting-edge features and technologies that enhance safety, comfort, and connectivity. These features make the Focus Active a formidable competitor in the compact SUV segment.
Safety Features
The Focus Active prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. It includes:
- Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects potential collisions and automatically applies brakes to prevent or mitigate accidents.
- Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist: Monitors lane markings and provides alerts or corrective steering assistance to keep the vehicle within its lane.
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross-Traffic Alert: Uses sensors to detect vehicles in blind spots and alerts drivers when it’s unsafe to change lanes.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go: Maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
- Evasive Steering Assist: Assists drivers in avoiding collisions by providing steering support when necessary.
Driver Assistance Systems
The Focus Active features an array of driver assistance systems that make driving more convenient and less stressful. These systems include:
- Adaptive Headlights: Automatically adjust beam patterns to optimize visibility without blinding oncoming traffic.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Detects vehicles approaching from the sides when reversing and alerts drivers to avoid collisions.
- Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist: Assists drivers in parking maneuvers by automatically steering the vehicle into tight spaces.
- Active Park Assist 2.0: Provides full hands-free parking, taking control of steering, braking, and gear selection.
- Head-Up Display: Projects essential driving information onto the windshield, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Focus Active offers a state-of-the-art infotainment system that seamlessly integrates with smartphones and provides a wide range of entertainment and connectivity options. Key features include:
- SYNC 4A Infotainment System: Features a 13.2-inch touchscreen with voice recognition, navigation, and smartphone integration.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility: Allows drivers to connect their smartphones to the vehicle’s infotainment system for seamless access to apps, music, and navigation.
- FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot: Provides in-vehicle Wi-Fi connectivity for up to 10 devices, allowing passengers to stay connected on the go.
- Bang & Olufsen Premium Audio System: Delivers immersive sound quality with 10 speakers and a subwoofer.
- Wireless Charging Pad: Enables convenient wireless charging of compatible smartphones.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Ford Focus Active is expected to be priced competitively in the compact crossover segment. The base model is anticipated to start around $25,000, while higher trim levels could reach up to $35,000.
The Focus Active will be available in three main trim levels: S, SE, and Titanium. The S trim will include standard features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a rearview camera. The SE trim will add features like heated seats, a sunroof, and a blind-spot monitoring system. The top-of-the-line Titanium trim will include leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and adaptive cruise control.
The 2026 Ford Focus Active is expected to go on sale in the United States in the fall of 2025. It will also be available in other markets around the world, with specific release dates varying by region.
Comparisons with Competitors
The 2026 Ford Focus Active faces stiff competition in the compact crossover segment. Key rivals include the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Hyundai Kona.
To assess the Focus Active’s competitive position, we compare its specifications, features, and pricing with these rivals:
Specifications
| Ford Focus Active | Honda HR-V | Toyota Corolla Cross | Hyundai Kona | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L inline-4 | 1.8L inline-4 | 2.0L inline-4 | 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 168 hp | 141 hp | 169 hp | 195 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 151 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | CVT | CVT | 7-speed dual-clutch |
| Fuel Economy (city/highway) | 27/35 mpg | 28/34 mpg | 30/38 mpg | 29/35 mpg |
| Ground Clearance | 6.6 inches | 6.7 inches | 6.1 inches | 6.4 inches |
Features
- The Focus Active offers a standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the HR-V, Corolla Cross, and Kona offer 7-inch screens as standard.
- The Focus Active and Kona offer available all-wheel drive, while the HR-V and Corolla Cross are only available with front-wheel drive.
- The Focus Active offers a standard Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The HR-V, Corolla Cross, and Kona offer similar safety features as options.
Pricing
| Ford Focus Active | Honda HR-V | Toyota Corolla Cross | Hyundai Kona | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $24,995 | $23,650 | $23,650 | $24,350 |
| Top-of-the-Line Price | $30,995 | $29,150 | $30,800 | $31,950 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Focus Active’s strengths include its powerful engine, standard all-wheel drive, and Co-Pilot360 safety suite. However, its fuel economy is slightly worse than some rivals, and its interior is not as spacious as some competitors.
Overall, the 2026 Ford Focus Active is a competitive offering in the compact crossover segment. It offers a strong balance of performance, features, and value, making it a good choice for buyers looking for a practical and affordable crossover.
Helpful Answers
What are the key exterior design changes in the New 2026 Ford Focus Active?
The 2026 Focus Active features a redesigned grille, headlights, and taillights, along with a more sculpted and aerodynamic overall shape.
How does the interior of the 2026 Focus Active differ from previous models?
The interior has been significantly upgraded with premium materials, a new infotainment system, and a more spacious and comfortable layout.
What engine options are available for the 2026 Ford Focus Active?
The 2026 Focus Active will offer a range of engine options, including a fuel-efficient hybrid and a powerful turbocharged gasoline engine.
What safety features are included in the 2026 Ford Focus Active?
The Focus Active comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
When will the 2026 Ford Focus Active be available?
The 2026 Focus Active is expected to be released in the second half of 2025.