Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi

The latest Ford Focus has endured a character-building introduction to the family car sector, having been narrowly beaten by the VW Golf in its first group test encounter.
 
Its blend of sharp driving dynamics, refinement and economy promises to give any newcomer a run for its money, though. And in range-topping Titanium trim, the five-door model delivers better cabin quality and more standard kit than lesser versions. Will this be enough to take it to the top?

When it comes to styling, the Focus attracts more attention than its rivals. Its bold mix of curves and creases gives a more modern appearance than the ungainly Peugeot. However, some of the detailing is clumsy, while the overall design looks a little fussy alongside the sober Golf and sleek Renault.

Climb aboard, and it’s obvious that Ford has taken a similarly ambitious approach. While the dash’s dizzying array of shapes and textures won’t be to all tastes, the layout is thoughtful and the driving position excellent.

Overall build quality is first-rate, although some of the plastics look and feel cheap, even on our range-topping test car. At least there’s plenty of standard equipment, with climate control, ambient cabin lighting and an auto-dimming rear view mirror adding some executive car polish.

Space for rear occupants is on a par with both the 308 and Golf, while a large glovebox, lidded cubby between the front seats and roomy door bins mean there’s ample stowage for odds and ends.

Unfortunately, the Ford’s practicality credentials are dealt a hammer blow by its cramped boot. This provides
a woeful 316-litre capacity – only 21 litres more than in the maker’s Fiesta supermini.

The Ford hits back with its straight-line performance, though. It completed the benchmark 0-60mph sprint in 10.6 seconds, making it the quickest of our contenders.

However, it was outgunned by the lighter and shorter-geared Renault in our in-gear tests. Still, the Focus’s 1.6-litre TDCi unit is smooth and responsive, while the standard six-speed manual box delivers slick shifts.

Where the Ford really scores is on driver thrills. Point the car’s nose down a twisty back road and you’ll discover a poised and grippy chassis. And while the steering is a little light, it’s direct and allows you to guide the Focus through corners with pinpoint accuracy.

In addition, the standard torque vectoring system, which can brake individual front wheels to boost traction, serves up tremendous front-end grip.

The trade-off for this dynamic excellence is an uncomfortable ride, even on this luxurious Titanium model. At low speeds, it’s firm, while on the motorway it fidgets constantly. This is a shame, because elsewhere the Ford is every bit as refined and comfortable as the Golf.

It’s great to drive, well kitted out and attractively priced, but will the compromised practicality and jarring ride cost the Focus in the final reckoning?

Details

Chart position: 2
WHY: Latest Focus features bold styling, a refined cabin and sharp driving dynamics. Punchy 1.6-litre TDCi is frugal, while Titanium trim brings lots of standard kit.