Ford Focus

Manufacturer
Ford

Model
Focus

Segment/Specs
Hatchback

Great all-rounder, the Focus is good at everything. The ST is one of the leading hot hatches available with power and torque til sundown. Pick the right engines and a model with a good roof and the CC will provide similar thrills.

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Performance

Loads of engines are on offer, and as long as you don't pick the puny 1.4. The 2-litre diesel is a smooth and powerful beast and the hot-hatch 2,5 ST is just a beast. 2-litre turbodiesel is the engine to choose in the coupe-cabriolet.

Driving

Handling and ride are superb, with plenty of grip, responsive steering and a comfortable ride around town. ST adds a firmer ride, and accordingly more grip.

Feel

Good insulation and well-behaved engines make for a good cruiser. The ST makes a pleasant raspy noise when revved.

Price

Well priced, especially on a mid-range trim with plenty of kit. Running costs will be decent but residuals aren't superb. The ST will suffer with running costs. CC residuals will be middling.

Quality

The interior looks, sounds and feels good, and mechanicals and engines should be strong.

Safety

Driver and passenger airbags and ABS are standard. Side and curtain bags and stability control are optional.

Space

Loads of space in the cabin means you'll comfortably fit in five. Bootspace in both hatch and saloon models is huge for a car of the Focus' class.

Equipment

CD player as standard.

Alternatives

Vauxhall Astra, Volkswagen Golf

Pros

Great to drive, good space, well priced.

Cons

Ride may be too firm for some.

A beauty

by Thomas (Limewood) - 30/09/2005 16:55:20

My choice of the 2 litre Zetec was compounded by a long series of deliberations. Most importantly, I wanted a sporty-looking car that was relatively cheap, and could do long-distance driving. I work in surveying, and spending time behind the wheel is sadly one of the downfalls of the job. The car has very good performance, and doesn't consume too much Diesel. I had a better stereo installed, and the long journeys are now almost bearable. No problems with it so far (knock on wood), and I would recommend it to anybody. If you have a family, try the 5-door. It does not look as tasty, but would be more useful.

Sorry, just about average

by Nigel Richards (Swansea) - 29/12/2005 10:37:02

My Ford Focus has never given me any problems, either bodywork or mechanical, but there are plenty of other cars out there that I'd go for, now I've had a chance to drive my Focus for the last 14 months.