Ford introduces new gearbox line

Ford has revealed a high-tech new automatic transmission for its current line-up, on which manages to achieve the same fuel economy as a manual gearbox.

The company has decided to call it 'PowerShift' and has described the new gadget as a lightweight transmission using the latest electronically controlled twin-clutch technology to change gear.

Therefore, the system doesn't need the torque converter or the planetary gears of regular auto boxes.

Both up and down shifts are executed faster than normal auto gearboxes, and are also faster than drivers can achieve with a manual.

The system uses a standard automatic gear lever in the centre console with the usual P, R, N and D settings. The gear lever can also be moved laterally to a parallel gate should the driver choose a sportier style and the option of shifting manually.

PowerShift is available on either the Ford Focus or C-MAX ranges and with the 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine.

Two states of tune are available - 136 or 110 PS. Regardless of power rating, body style or series, all Focus models equipped with PowerShift offer a combined fuel economy of 48.6 mpg, with average CO2 emissions of 154 g/km, while C-Max models deliver 47.9mpg and 159 g/km.

A Focus with Powershift starts from £18,195 for the three-door Zetec, and a C-Max with PowerShift starts from £19,895 for the five-door.