2003 Ford Focus Zetec TDCi 115hp review from UK and Ireland

Nothing yet - had car 3 months only.

Firm ride of Zetec model results in lots of bobbing and pitching on rippled and undulating road surfaces. Worse in diesel due to heavier engine - stiffer springs required.

Handles well until you push hard, then understeers and front end loses grip. Better tyres might help (have cheap Fate-O on front at the moment). Body roll is well-controlled.

Turbo doesn't kick in until 1750rpm then over 3000rpm performance fades - narrow power band requires lots of gear changing, and:

Gearbox notchy and obstructive. Might be unusual as other Foci I have driven have been pretty good.

Engine takes a while to warm up and can stall easily when cold - petrol engines are probably a better bet for short journeys or commutes.

Good acceleration in 2nd and 3rd gear, but 4th/5th so high that it diminishes. Absurdly high 32.5mph per. 1000rpm in top makes for effortless 80-90mph motorway cruising, but kills the acceleration.

Engine a bit noisy from behind wheel, but quiet from outside car oddly enough.

Roomy interior, but seats firm in Zetec. Trim OK, but not very tactile or high quality - built to a price.

Good wheel/seat adjustability and plenty of head- and legroom - I'm 6ft5.