Car reviews

Introduction

The 2nd generation Focus, although recognisable as a Focus, is a brand new car. It's even developed on a new compact platform that is shared with the compact Volvo models and the Mazda 3. The car has grown in size and the extra inch in the wheel base seems to make a big difference to the comfort level.

Exterior & Interior

Although the main design features of the 90s Focus are retained you cannot help but notice that this is a more grown-up car. It almost feels as if the designers have tried to tone it down and make it less flashy. It is not going to disappoint the Focus enthusiasts because the prominent wheel arches, the characteristic front end and the aggressive body shape still remains. The main difference between the generations is the roofline. Missing are the large rear lamp clusters. The radiator grille slightly resembles the smaller cousin Fiesta.

Considerable touches have been made to the interior. The new car is very spacious and the cabin gives a pleasant feel. Although the dimensions haven't increased much, the usable space has been re-developed and suddenly the car seats 5 adults comfortably and there's no squeeze in the shoulder zone.

One thing that is commendable in the new Focus is the driving seat configuration. The position is near perfect, there are many ways in which the seat and steering column can be adjusted. To further improve the comfort, each driver can change the power steering settings to match their driving style.

Better quality materials are now used in the cabin, although the new car prices have been kept down, making sure the customers won't be spooked away by the price-tag.

Drive

It's still pleasant to drive, regardless of the many changes it has undergone. The stiffer chassis means the new car feels different than its predecessor. The suspension was more or less carried forward from the 1st generation Focus, but some tweaks have been made. As a result, it may feel more comfortable on bumpy roads, but the fans of sporty driving will observe an unwanted "maturity" in the way the new Focus behaves. It's not as edgy and precise as the 1st generation but leaves a good overall impression. This car provides straightforward handling and smooth ride quality. It is excellent around the bends and doesn't bother the passengers with excessive body roll.

Faults & Repairs

The 2nd generation Ford Focus is a reliable car and compared to the 1st generation, they've managed to improve the quality of assembly. The vision of the Ford engineers was to create a worthy, more reliable replacement to the old Ford Escort that would be able to compete with Volkswagen Golf. One thing that they've managed to do is keeping the running costs down. It really doesn't cost a fortune to keep a Focus. There are certain issues related to the car's ICU and other electrical systems that you should check for before purchasing a Focus.