What is it?
A Focus, and by Ford's own admission, its most important product. Simplistically, it's the sliced white bread of the car world. Fairly plain, but sometimes downright brilliant - depending on the filling. Seriously, the Focus has always been right at the top of the family hatchback pile, and the 'new' car is still as impressive as ever. It drives fantastically, looks smart, offers plenty of space, is good value and there's a Ford dealer on every corner. Competition includes offerings like the really rather good Vauxhall Astra, the bland but dependable Toyota Auris, Honda's spaceship-like Civic, the Peugeot 308 and Citroen C4 from France and the VW Golf.
All those have their own merits, but there's no escaping that the Focus does a fantastic job of mixing up most of the elements of the competition and adding brilliant driving dynamics into the equation. This new Focus is a facelifted version and while it might not look too different in passing every panel bar the roof has been changed. Most obviously there's a new nose that's dominated by the bolder headlamps and the wider grille under the bumper. A revised bonnet and a neat feature line along its flanks give it a fresher, more dynamic style too. There are a few changes inside improving the instruments and controls, while refinement has been targeted to good effect and safety for all improves too with the standard fitment of ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) across the entire range.
Is it any good?
It's been a best seller since it was introduced around ten years ago, so customers seem to like it. And there's good reason, as the way it drives is excellent. Even those drivers completely unconcerned by crisp steering, precise body control and the other enjoyable driving characteristics that the Focus delivers seem to warm to it. And by that we're not talking about road-testers throwing it down a favourite mountain road in a way that no-one will ever drive it. Instead it's the Focus's inherent togetherness when going about the day-to-day routine of driving. The suspension takes the edge off poor surfaces with ease, while speed-bumps that might have others crashing and jarring their occupants are smothered very well by the Ford.
In corners the body roll is well contained, its responses very faithful and controlled. Two engines were available to drive at launch, a 2.0-litre petrol with 143bhp feels lively enough, and decently refined, but its 134bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel alternative offers far punchier performance and over 50mpg on the official combined consumption cycle. Petrol units in 1.4, 1.8 and 2.5-litre capacities will also be offered, while 1.6 and 1.8-litre turbodiesels will complete the diesel range. There is a new ECOnetic model based on the 1.6 turbodiesel with 115g/km emissions, which would be exempt from the congestion charge if the current proposed changes are implemented. Equipment levels have improved, Ford adding some useful new touches such as a capless refuelling system that prevents owners from mis-fuelling, an auxiliary socket on all or an optional USB port, which allows iPod control, Bluetooth connectivity and a new satellite navigation system.
Should I call the bank manager?
The Focus is such a competent all-rounder you've very reason to give your bank manager a call. Really, if you're not bothered by things like premium badges you couldn't ask for more. It drives well, looks good, has plenty of space and interior quality and materials are all up to the class standards. It's affordable too, and shouldn't cost too much to insure and run, which is another reason why your bank manager will like it.
Summary
The changes to the Focus might not be apparent at a brief glance, but Ford has done a great job of refreshing its most important model. Sharper looks, still as enjoyable to drive as ever, safer with standard ESP and more equipment and options across a simplified range, the Focus remains the benchmark in its class.
Kyle Fortune
learner drivers (Eleanor S) Ford KA Angel Headlights (Teddy's mate) Honda Jazz sports rear spoiler (scott h)
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