Faults:

Firm suspension, yet delicate on loose surfaces.

At highway speeds of 130 km/h, it runs at high RPM (approx. 3,500 RPM), slightly increasing fuel consumption.

Wear on compression rings.

The front hood lock cylinder breaks or comes loose, forcing you to manipulate the key awkwardly through the grille.

Replacement parts specific to the Ghia version are expensive and hard to find. That’s what happened to me with the directional projector headlights I had to replace.

General Comments:

My Focus is the sedan version—less popular than the hatchback, but I prefer it.

What really stands out about this Focus is the large, trapezoidal lower grille, combined with the new bumper, headlights, fenders, and hood, which give it a look that is not just sporty but aggressive. The smaller upper grille is balanced by a chrome strip very similar to the one found on the Ford Mondeo.

I really like the exterior, and it doesn't differ much from the early Focus models of the late 90s.

The interior is quite spacious, allowing five people to travel in comfort; the Ghia’s front and rear seats are upholstered in high-quality leather that does not deteriorate over time. The front seat proved to be very comfortable, excellent, I would say, complemented by electric height and lumbar adjustments.

Offers excellent visibility thanks to the optimization of the bodywork and details such as the recessed rear headrests, which do not obstruct the view when not in use.

What struck me most about this Focus is the "Ford Power" button, the keyless start button. When the driver enters the car carrying the remote fob, the Focus communicates with a microchip embedded in the key remote to activate the ignition system. Once inside, you can press the start button; this same button is also used to turn off the engine, requiring either a sustained press or three quick presses. It is located on the center console, behind the gear shift lever.

It is quite safe and stable; you can drive it with confidence at high speeds.

The suspension, while not stiff, handles high-speed cornering perfectly, striking a good balance for both city and highway driving.

The brakes respond very smoothly at low speeds. The relationship between pedal travel and braking force is perfectly balanced.

Finally, it has a very good engine; it’s quiet, trouble-free, and fuel-efficient.

I’m glad my car has a manual transmission (though a 6-speed would be even better), as it saves me the headaches associated with the PowerShift transmission found in newer Focus models.

It’s a great car, economical, reliable, and equipped with all the necessary features.

Faults:

Not much if anything in my two year ownership of low miles and garaged from the start of my time with it. Previous owner spent a tonne of money on preventative maintenance rather than any actual faults according to the detailed history; like any car they are reliable if looked after, but be aware this is no ordinary Ford Focus - service and looking after it requires know how and lots of money!

General Comments:

Genuine RS Focus in white from 2010 - a fantastic car (in the right hands) there are clever fakes / look a likes out there. Do your homework if buying one yourself.

A genuine RS will drive like one. 0-60 mph in under six seconds and 163 mph top end. Expect anything between 20 - 30 mpg at best on petrol. Worth it considering the performance though.

Ride very harsh, rally car like interior, do not buy an RS for comfort! Loud as well even with the standard exhaust. My neighbor hates when I start it up.

Amazing acceleration and looks. Clutch is rather sharp - I have stalled it a few times (and I'm a good driver); there is nothing wrong with it, just takes a bit of getting used to.

Never buy a crash damaged one. Tax and insurance is expensive too.

Though not quite the same beast, reminds me very much of an Escort Cosworth I had in the 1990's.

An amazing fun weekend car!