Well, here it is – the all-new Ford Focus. The previous-generation car was one of the most popular cars in the UK of all time, so this latest model has quite the job on its hand. With better tech, an improved range of engines as well as an all-new look, this latest Focus promises to the best yet – but can it deliver? That’s what we’re here to find out.
EXTERIOR VO
You can’t help but be impressed by the looks of the new Focus. Sharp angular lines go against flared arches and a sporty front grille, to create a car which genuinely looks special. Certainly, it’s one of the best-looking ‘standard’ cars that we’ve seen this year.
ENGINES VO
This particular Focus is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which here sends power to the front wheels through an automatic gearbox. Ford claims that it’ll return over 70mpg – though expect to see figures around the 60mpg mark during daily driving.
It’s joined in the range by a series of turbocharged petrol engines, as well as one larger and more powerful diesel. In short, there’s something for everyone.
DRIVING PTC
The previous generation Ford Focus was a car which even serious enthusiasts could enjoy driving. It had really good steering, great throttle response and, more than anything, great inherent balance which made it really good to drive. Fortunately, this has been carried over to the new.
The steering may feel different to those who were used to the previous Focus however, as it’s now a properly electrically assisted rack, and it’s now got that slightly rubbery effect that you’ll find on other cars in the Ford range. It’s not that it isn’t accurate, it just means that it feels slightly sluggish off centre.
Elsewhere things are very good. The 1.5-litre diesel in this car is punchy and though it takes over nine seconds to hit 60mph, it feels much stronger than those numbers suggest.
The only real drawback we can find on this car is the ST Line specification. You get larger alloy wheels and a lowered ride height, and it makes the car just a little pattery over broken surfaces. This isn’t suggest picking if you’re after the best ride possible, but for those who are looking for a slightly sportier drive then it’s a box we’d keep firmly ticked.
Now this car in particular is fitted with an automatic gearbox and, in truth, it shifts really smoothly and it’s a great choice for those who are looking to use their Focus on longer journeys as it makes the whole driving experience far more relaxing.
INTERIOR PTC
The interior of the Focus is a good progression on the old car’s cabin. The seating position is still excellent, and there’s plenty of adjustability to be found here too. The latest SYNC infotainment system is a lot better than previous versions, though it can still be a little laggy at times.
Overall, it’s a good place to be – and feels solid enough to cope with the rough and tumble of daily use.
BOOT SPACE
There’s plenty of boot space on offer in the Focus. With the rear seats in place there’s 375 litres to play with, rising to 1,354 litres with the rear seats lowered. It’s worth noting, however, that if you upgrade to the B&O sound system, then a subwoofer is fitted in the boot floor – and this makes it shallower, while removing the variable boot floor.
