2002 Ford Focus Zetec review from Australia and New Zealand

A faulty factory engine mount replaced under warranty.

A couple of everyday minor rattles fixed on a weekend off work by myself.

This is the world's best little car which makes me smile every time I drive it or look at it. I love the styling, the handling shames anything even remotely close to it and the performance is spot on for it's size and specifications. I had always dreamed of a 2.0 litre and the 2.0 Zetec manual is such a perfect combination of a great smooth strong gearbox, good ratios and a nice strong torquey engine. Everyone would be happier with a bigger exhaust and more power, but as a stock car, my Zetec is perfect for what it is intended to be. I'd have to say it is one of Australia's most underrated cars.

Long distance comfort is awesome, short distance trips only make me want to drive longer just so I can keep having fun. I'd have to say the only problem is that I have driven it so hard and so well that I have chewed through a set of tyres in 30,000km or about 14 months!!! WELL worth the extra money for the fun in my books.

If you don't at least test-drive a Focus you are seriously not doing yourself justice or being fair to you future purchase decisions!!!