DEARBORN, MI – The 2008 Ford Focus is redesigned inside and out with a bold new exterior, modern interior and several new safety and technology features, including Ford Sync – Ford's exclusive fully integrated, voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment system for mobile phones and digital media players. Also new is a sporty two-door Focus coupe. On sale in the fall of 2007, the new Focus will offer fuel economy rivaling smaller vehicles. It’s equipped with a 2.0L, 16-valve, four-cylinder engine with a new air intake system and new cooling system delivering an estimated 136 hp. Available in states adopting the California emission standards is a super-clean Duratec 20E engine that qualifies as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV). The 2008 Focus is approximately 60 lbs. lighter and expected to deliver real-world fuel economy similar to today's model, despite added content and a stiffer body. Currently, Focus offers a U.S. EPA rating of 37 miles per gallon on the highway. Ford Sync is available in the new Focus. Developed in association with Microsoft, Ford Sync connects to cellular phones and downloads personal features, such as phone books and ring tones. Using Sync's voice recognition software, drivers can place and receive calls and receive text messages using the vehicle's audio system. Users can maintain a cell phone conversation while entering or exiting the vehicle. Sync also offers hands-free, voice-activated control for nearly any digital media player. The 2008 Focus, in addition to Ford's Personal Safety System, comes standard with side airbags and side air curtains. Side air curtains – Ford's Safety Canopy – feature "roll-fold" technology. If occupants are resting their heads against a window, the curtain is designed to slide between the glass and occupants as it inflates. In the event of a rollover, the curtains remain inflated for several seconds to enhance protection during an extended crash event. Ford's Personal Safety System is a comprehensive collection of passive safety features for front passengers. The system includes dual-deployment front airbags, energy-absorbing safety belts, and load-limiting retractors and pretensioners.