2011 Ford Focus Style 1.6 TCDi 110 bhp turbo diesel

Summary:

What a machine, what a masterpiece

Faults:

Nothing. But after just 7 weeks and 7,000km, there shouldn't be problems.

General Comments:

I cannot believe how good this car is. I had the 2005-2007 version before, and despite the lack of power and the thirst, I adored it.

This thing though... Good God! I chose the older version, because I found the Mark III a little dull to drive, and it doesn't seem as practical.

Torque is available everywhere, and the surge of power is fantastic. Left posturing boy racers behind on the motorway on a few occasions.

The acceleration is just relentless, wheel spin in second gear (third in the rain). No need to change down a gear to overtake, so a very relaxing drive when it wants to be. Despite this, I still average 4.4l/100km (64 MPG if you're still in old money). Road tax is rock bottom, and if my old Focus was anything to go by, maintenance costs will be next to nil.

Handling is amazing, especially considering the heavy diesel engine in front. Also, the steering gives fantastic feel in sport mode.

Comfort wise, the Focus is excellent. It soaks up bumps like a much bigger car with almost no body roll.

Lots of nice touches inside too, such as the sunglasses case above the driver's head, the lights over the sun visor, the quality of the interior.

Test drove the Astra, Golf, A3, Octavia and the Auris, along with the Mark II and III Focuses, and the Focus II is by far the best.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th February, 2012

2011 Ford Focus Zetec 1.6 TDI turbo diesel

Summary:

Love it

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

I have this car as a company car. It is the estate version. I have never really drove a Focus before, but I love it.. I have the optional privacy glass and 17" alloys, which look nice.

Very nice drive, lacks cruise control, which would be nice. The steering is a little light, but I've got used to it now.

A little more low down power from start off would be nice, but apart from that, it's quick enough.

It's a great looking car, not seen any other estates on the road just yet, looks like a baby Mondeo from the back.

Has a great music system, DAB works well, and can bluetooth music through it too.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st July, 2011

25th Oct 2011, 10:09

Well I've now done 10k in the Focus, and expected the fuel economy to be better. I have the 1.6 TDCi, and only average 42.3mpg, which is poor. Lucky for me I get free fuel from work. Either way, I will mention this to the dealer when in for its first service.

I've also noticed the remote locking is flaky when outside different parts of the car. For example, it won't lock when close to the car and at the back; walk away and it's fine..

The in car DAB radio is a plus, it works really well.

19th Sep 2012, 03:04

Well I've covered 30k miles now, and can say I'm still happy with the car...

The engine has improved in terms of performance, but fuel economy is still poor compared to the Golf Mk5 I had before.

Wear and tear on the car is OK, no rattles to report, and it has only gone to the dealer for its normal servicing.

The only downside, and this doesn't affect me, as the car is covered by the lease company, is the tyre prices. Stay away from the 17" alloys at £200 per tyre... ouch!