While most of our readers will be waiting for the high-performance ST version of the new Ford Focus->ke440, most of America will be buying up the base versions and today, Ford has just made them happy people.

The base 2012 Ford Focus will get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that will put out 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. On top of that, the new motor will be able to muster 40 miles per gallon. Take that Chevrolet->ke199.

The new motor will feature direct-injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing and E85 flex-fuel capabilities and will be produced at Ford’s->ke31 Dearborn plant.

“By combining direct injection and Ti-VCT, we’ve been able to make a quantum leap in fuel economy and performance,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development in a statement. “We’re meeting the goals of our global powertrain strategy, and we now have another key engine in our lineup.”

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