Ford’s Focus has been an enormous sales success here in the UK, selling in larger numbers than just about any rival. Now four years old, it lacks the novelty appeal that it exuded at launch, but in reality, its trim, equipment, engines and especially its pricing, are better than ever.
Take this Ghia diesel, for instance. It’s currently available from a Ford dealer for £1800 less than four years ago, yet recent revisions include an advanced fuelling system with more power and refinement. Cosmetic changes are small outside, but enthusiasts will spot repositioned indicators and other external lights, plus better (painted) bumper protection strips in plastic.
Inside, a really useful enhancement (yet to reach Fiesta) is a split/fold back seat cushion; this means that luggage overflow can be stowed alongside a seated rear passenger, on a level though stepped load surface. There’s also a ‘versatility pack’ on the options list these days, which seems a bit of an apology for the fact that there’s no proper MPV version of Ford’s lower-medium contender.
Our rival’s table illustrates that in terms of accommodation, the Focus is nowadays merely class-average. Likewise, the latest diesel engines – available with 100 and 115bhp, don’t set any new standards in terms of performance or fuel economy. They’re a lot cleaner and significantly smoother and quieter, however – especially in four and five-door models. This test car’s willingness to pull from little more than 1000rpm makes it much more tractable in traffic and even around the lanes, it can all be done in fourth gear.
Start up and idling are better muted than the previous diesel could manage – it now compares more than favourably, in these respects, with VW and Peugeot equivalents.
There’s very little cause for complaint in terms of ride, handling and steering, either. One peculiarity, however, is that the Ghia version (with its emphasis on comfort and ease) still goes for bigger, wider wheels and lower-profile tyres (to give it eye appeal?), so its ride is noisier and more stiff-limbed than the LX’s. Still, it’s got lots of grip and it brakes well, too.
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LIKES ...
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- generous trimming underneath/behind back seat
- easy to control radio/CD
- no special oil for this diesel
- ticket pockets in sides of front seats
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and GRIPES
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- poor air-conditioner distribution/temperature control
- a lot of tyre roar
- stops dead if engine asked to run too slowly
- rear head restraints obtrusive
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VERDICT
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It’s easy to downplay the Focus because of its own success. It may not have the bullet-proof reliability of some Japanese contenders in its sector, but it has always possessed the road manners to make them look second best. The advent of this new-generation diesel engine means that this Ford now has superior mechanical manners, as well. Don’t let familiarity breed contempt.
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Car Test
