FORD'S Pacific region stole the thunder of the company's European division by revealing the next Focus three months earlier than had been planned.

Their efforts to provide the surprise of the Beijing Auto Show took the limelight from the reveal being planned by Ford of Europe at the Paris Motor Show in September.

Described at a 'teaser' by region executive vice-president Mark Shulz, the new car is bigger, sleeker and more sophisticated than the current best-seller, both to retail and fleet customers. Shown as a concept, but admitted by officials to be 'very close' to the next generation production model, the new Focus has a more sporty appearance.

Ford Asia Pacific design manager Paul Gibson said: 'We put it on the stand here to reflect the level of commitment we have to the Chinese market.'

The new Focus was a notable absence on the Ford stand at Motor Show Live in Birmingham. Executives said they would not unveil the car until the Paris Motor Show in September, because the current model was still selling so well.

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