Apparently more than 1,500 Ford engineers were working on the new Focus at various stages of its development and it shows. Its smart styling and driveability makes it one of the very best around.
What is it?
Winner of the Continental Irish Compact Family Car of the Year 2012, the Focus is Ireland’s best selling car and has been a huge success story in Ireland since its launch in 1999.
Who is it aimed at?
Just about everyone, next time you are on the road look to your left and then your right and simply count how many you see.
Styling
Ford has always played a safe hand in terms of the Focus with conservative redesigns since its dramatic launch in 1998. Sales of 10 million plus have certainly vindicated this approach. With the third generation Focus the approach is far more radical and the rule book appears to have been dispensed with. But its not to everyone’s taste.!
Under the Bonnet
Whether you opt for petrol or diesel there is a huge range to choose from. The diesel engines are based around the 1.6 and 2.0 litre TDCI units. The smaller diesel comes in 70kW as tested here and 85kW guises, with a revamped combustion system, smarter fuel injection and a turbocharger. A big plus in favour of the diesels both 1.6T TDCi engines fall into Tax Band A(€160 annually) . The 2.0 litre TDCi in 85kW falls into Tax Band B(€225 annually) and is only available with Automatic Transmission.
What about Inside?
While not as roomy as some rivals it can comfortably carry four adults and five at a squeeze. If they want to take luggage with them the Focus might not be up to the job as the boot is a lot smaller than the previous hatchback model at 316 litres with the mini spare and 277 with the full-size spare wheel but at least it’s well shaped with decent access. Rear seat backs split and fold 60/40 but if you need more carrying capacity the Ford C-Max is the better option.
Inside the cabin looks and feels very sophisticated and oozes quality. Dials and switches are all within easy reach of the driver. Despite the new Focus being narrower and lower, the interior feels spacious.
On the Road?
The Focus has always been a great drivers’ car and the new Focus is quieter, more comfortable and classier than the previous model. On the downside it doesn’t respond to the throttle as eagerly or as sharply, nor is the suspension as firm. That said in terms of handling and ride comfort the Focus is still class leading.
Safety
Safety is first rate and the car bristles with electronic safety systems to keep you, the kids, the dogs and the shopping supremely cocooned.
Verdict
Its smart styling and driveability makes it one of the best around. Focus sets the bar high for every other manufacturer in the sector and Ford consistently put it upwards a little more with every new version of the car.
Why you’ll buy one?
Still not as razor sharp as its predecessor but it is so good to drive you won’t care.
Why you won’t?
The interior is not on a par with rivals and basic models are pretty sparse.
LAST WORD: So well priced, so good to drive and so economical it is hard to find a serious gripe with the current Focus.
FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI Zetec
Engine: 1,560cc four-cylinder front-wheel drive diesel putting out 77kW and 270Nm of torque
Max speed: 187 kph
0-100km/h: 12.3 seconds
Emissions (motor tax) : 117 g/km, €160 (Band A)
Starting price: €19,465 (Tested Model €23,689 – included optional Bluetooth Pack)
Model price range: €19,465 – €30,595
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 4.5 L/100km
Boot Capacity Seats up (seats down): 316 litres (1101 litres)
Length: 4358(mm)
Width: 1858(mm)
Height: 1462(mm)
Service interval: 20,000 km
Warranty : 3 years
