Ford Focus
Ratings
4 stars
Summary
Recommended. The original Focus was revolutionary. This one is more evolutionary, but it is still an excellent product.
Review
We loved the original Focus - one of the most radical mainstream cars in recent memory, and by far the coolest thing to happen to the dowdy mid-sized hatchback segment in the last decade. Improving on it was always going to be a hard task for Ford - keeping the fun and improving on the lowest-bidder trim quality. Yet, with a couple of reservations, the second-generation model has managed it.
The cabin has been dramatically improved. While the original car felt like it had been trimmed by the same people responsible for McDonalds cartons, inside this one manages to radiate a real quality feel. Driving dynamics remain exemplary too, with ultra-accurate steering, a well-damped ride and properly sorted body control making the Focus a brilliant place to spend time on favourite "B" road. Motorway cruising is similarly accomplished, the Focus remaining calm and stable at speed, while the comfortable driving position helps to pass long stints at the wheel. All have decent passenger space, while saloon and estate variants have massive boots as well.
And the bad news? Well cheaper versions suffer from a sometimes stingy lack of kit - and the more basic engines are lacking in urge and refinement compared to rivals, the gutless 1.4 being particularly bad - book overtaking moves at least a fortnight in advance. The styling is still likely to split opinions, too -although we reckon the more you see it, the more you like it.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
3 star
We're still not sure about the hatchback's gawky looks - especially the ski-ramp profile of the tailgate. Chunky estate version is an improvement.
Handling
5 star
No other mid-sized family car drives like this. In fact, precious few fully fledged sportscars do. Ford still knows how to make a great drivers' car.
Comfort
4 star
Good noise insulation and a well-damped ride make the Focus a good place to while away the M5 or M62.
Quality & Reliability
4 star
A well-finished, solid feeling cabin means this Focus is a dramatic improvement over the cheap-feeling first generation model.
Performance
3 star
Smaller petrol engines really lack urge when compared to rivals, diesels are far stronger. The 2.5 litre turbocharged ST promises to be great.
Roominess
4 star
Good by class standards with decent room for both front and rear seat passengers. The heavily raked tailgate cuts into the available luggage space on hatchback versions - estate is impressively commodious.
Running Costs
4 star
Low servicing costs and decent fuel economy, especially from the diesel engines, ensure the Focus makes a strong financial case for itself.
Value for money
4 star
The Focus's attractively low entry-level pricing comes at the cost of poor standard equipment - if you're looking for toys you'll be forced towards the more expensive end of the range.
