FORD has returned to the world of open-topped motoring with the elegant Focus Coupé-Cabriolet 51.

Launched at last month’s Geneva Motor Show, the Coupe-Cabriolet has been led by customer response to Ford’s Vignale Concept. The positive reaction prompted Ford to put the car into production, and it has been made ready in less than two years.

"The new Focus Coupé-Cabriolet is a true example of Ford’s current design and engineering direction: Stylish and stimulating, but delightful day-to-day," said Paul Elligate, group sales manager at SMC.

"It’s a car people will be proud to be seen in. In typical Ford style, the operation of the hard-top roof is simplicity itself. The Focus Coupé-Cabriolet can be turned from an elegant coupé into a stylish cabriolet within seconds at the push of a button."

The Focus Coupé-Cabriolet, which will go into volume production in the next few months, joins the Focus ST at the top of the Focus range.

The car utilises a two-piece folding electric hardtop to go from snug family motoring to wind-in-the-hair excitement.

It is a full four-seater, and will offer a substantial luggage compartment with more than 500 litres of useable space.

In keeping with its status the Focus range, equipment levels will be comprehensive. Full details will be revealed closer to launch, but the usual Focus refinements including air conditioning, multiple airbags, in-car entertainment options and a full complement of active and passive safety features will be standard.

Customers will be able to feel the difference as the Focus Coupé-Cabriolet transforms. The change from one to the other is quick and easy. At the push of a button, the retractable two-piece hardtop folds backward and stows in the boot.

The Ford Focus Coupé-Cabriolet will be offered with a choice of two petrol engines, the 100 PS 1.6-litre Duratec and the 145 PS 2.0-litre Duratec, and the latest generation 136 PS 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel.

"This new model is yet another fantastic addition to the Ford range, hot on the heels of the desirable Focus ST and Fiesta ST models," said Mr Elligate.

"Add in the Streetka and the Sportka and it’s easy to see why people regard the current Ford model line up as the most exciting in their history."

The new Ford Focus Coupé-Cabriolet will go on sale across Europe in the summer. It is estimated that approximately 20,000 vehicles will be produced a year.