2001 Ford Focus Zetec 3 door SE review from UK and Ireland

Nothing yet (fingers crossed, touch wood, etc).

After one long weekend of driving around motorways and small roads in the mountains I have a big smile plastered across my face.

The drive is beautiful... silky smooth. Handling is very sporty on the Zetec. I'm able to drive 10 to 15 mph faster around bends than in the old Punto.

Looks fantastic with the partial dress-up kit (especially with black metallic paint).

I didn't think much of the quickness when I first pulled the car out of the dealership. Then I noticed that I had accelerated up to 80mph in no time at all (up hill). Overtaking is a comfortable, silent and quick operation in the 1.6.

Brakes (ABS) are very responsive. That took some getting used to but I like it.

Extremely comfortable to drive. Loads of room. I've a bad left knee and I have loads of room to stretch and get the kinks out.

6 CD changer/remote control is excellent. Not a single skip on the CD's after driving over pot-holed roads all weekend. The sound is great. Tape is superior to the Blaupunkt I had in my old Punto. The remote is conveniently placed and is quite solid.

Only complaints:

Boot needs to be firmly closed to shut it properly.

Biting point on the clutch is a bit high. I prefer it to be lower.