Which Ford car replaced the Escort in Europe when it launched in 1998?

The Ford car that replaced the Escort in Europe when it launched in 1998 was the Ford Focus.

Ford introduced the Focus as a compact family car designed for global markets. In Europe, it succeeded the long-running Escort and used Ford’s New Edge styling, characterized by sharply intersecting lines and angular details. Its independent rear suspension also helped distinguish it dynamically from many rivals.

The Focus was sold as a hatchback, saloon, estate, and later other body styles, depending on the market. It became one of Ford’s most important international nameplates and was also sold in North America, where it arrived for the 2000 model year.

The Focus is sometimes confused with the Mondeo because both were major Ford family cars. The Mondeo occupied a larger class, while the Focus was the Escort’s compact successor.