Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Size and Styling
Dimensions Matter
The Focus is significantly larger than the Fiesta, measuring over 30cm longer and nearly 10cm wider. This size difference is immediately noticeable and plays a crucial role in their functionality.
Trims and Customisation
Both cars offer a wide range of trims to cater to various budgets. Notably, both models include an “Active” trim designed to mimic SUV styling, complete with raised suspension and extra trim around the wheel arches. While the Focus is only available as a five-door model, the Fiesta offers both three- and five-door hatchback options, adding to its versatility.
Exterior Design
The latest updates in 2022 brought fresh styling to both models. The Fiesta boasts a more compact, sporty look, while the Focus features a more substantial, aerodynamic design. These updates ensure that both models remain contemporary, appealing to a broad audience.
Ford Fiesta left; Ford Focus right
Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Interior and Tech
Dashboard Layout
Inside, the Fiesta and Focus share a similar dashboard layout, featuring user-friendly controls and a responsive infotainment system. The infotainment display protrudes from the top, with shortcut buttons and stereo volume controls conveniently placed below.
Infotainment System
Ford’s infotainment system is highly regarded for its user-friendly interface, sharp graphics, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This system is consistent across both models, making it easy to find and use your favorite features.
Additional Features
Higher trims of both the Fiesta and Focus come equipped with built-in sat-nav, digital driver displays, and premium features like heated front seats and steering wheels. These added luxuries enhance the overall driving experience and comfort.
Ford Fiesta left; Ford Focus right
Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Which has the bigger boot?
Boot Capacity
The Fiesta’s boot offers 292 litres of space, which is relatively small for its class. In contrast, the Focus provides a more generous 375 litres. This extra space makes the Focus a better option for families or those needing more storage capacity.
Interior Space
Both cars offer ample space in the front seats, accommodating even taller drivers comfortably. However, the Focus provides significantly more rear-seat room, making it a better choice for carrying adult passengers. The Fiesta is more suited to children or shorter trips with adults in the back.
Foldable Seats
Both models feature foldable rear seats, expanding cargo capacity when needed. For those requiring even more space, the Focus estate model offers an impressive 575 litres, perfect for larger loads or family pets.
Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Which is the better drive?
Fun to Drive
Ford is known for producing cars that are fun to drive, and both the Fiesta and Focus live up to this reputation. They offer nimble handling and responsive steering, making them enjoyable to drive in various conditions.
City vs. Highway
The Fiesta excels in urban environments, thanks to its smaller size and agility, making parking a breeze. The Focus, with its larger size and more stable high-speed handling, is better suited for longer highway drives.
Engine Options
Both cars offer a range of petrol and diesel engines to suit different needs. The Fiesta’s popular 1.0-litre ‘EcoBoost’ petrol engine delivers 100bhp, while the Focus offers a 125bhp version of the same engine. These options provide a good balance of fuel economy and performance.
Ford Fiesta left; Ford Focus right
Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Which is cheaper to run?
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is comparable between the two models. The Fiesta’s petrol engines offer 40-57mpg, while the diesel options provide 54-65mpg. The Focus’s petrol engines deliver 39-56mpg, with diesels achieving 44-67mpg. These figures mean running costs will be similar for both cars.
Insurance and Tax
Insurance costs are generally low for both models, with the Fiesta’s base models falling into a lower insurance group than the Focus. Car tax rates are also comparable, with no significant differences impacting ownership costs.
Purchase Price
While the Fiesta is typically cheaper to buy than a similarly spec’d Focus, their running costs are nearly identical. This makes the Fiesta a more budget-friendly option upfront, but the Focus offers more practicality for a slight premium.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Ratings
Both the Fiesta and Focus have received five-star safety ratings from Euro NCAP, highlighting their excellent crash protection and safety features. Standard features include lane-keeping assist and speed limiters, with higher trims offering additional safety technologies like automatic emergency braking.
Reliability
Ford has a strong reputation for building reliable cars. In the J.D. Power 2019 UK Vehicle Dependability Study, Ford ranked 9th out of 24 brands, indicating a high level of reliability for both models.
Dimensions
Ford Fiesta
- Length: 4,040mm
- Width (including mirrors): 1,941mm
- Height: 1,476mm
- Boot space: 292 litres
Ford Focus
- Length: 4,382mm
- Width (including mirrors): 1,979mm
- Height: 1,471mm
- Boot space: 375 litres
Verdict
Both the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus are excellent choices in their respective categories. The Fiesta excels as a small, agile hatchback suited for city driving, while the Focus offers more space and comfort, making it ideal for families and longer trips. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for more car-buying guidance, check out our safe buying advice and complete buying guide & checklist.
Whether you choose the Fiesta or the Focus, you’re making a solid choice with either model. Want to explore more? Browse both cars today at MOTORS.
