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Ford Focus Gallery
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| COMFORT AND EQUIPMENT RATING: |
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Ergonomically, the latest Focus is virtually unchanged from the model it replaces, which was always sound anyway. A couple of gripes have been addressed: the gearlever sits slightly higher, while it feels like the steering wheel has more movement through its reach/rake adjustment. As of summer 2005, an electrically adjustable pedal-box is available. Seats are comfortable and supportive, but the centre arm-rest can restrict use of the handbrake, and obstructs one of the cup-holders.
Rear seat space, despite the differing appearances of the three- and five-door Focuses, is the same, as is headroom. It's a little cramped compared to some rivals but is acceptable for two adults, while boot-space is ample. Estates aren't enormous, but have a useful load capacity behind their upright rear tailgates; they feel significantly smaller than the closely related Volvo V50, strangely, though their overall dimensions are actually quite similar. Pricing and equipment levels are keen; all get electric front windows and all but but the base models get air conditioning. The entry model doesn't get a CD player either, which is unacceptable. The variety of options are better: you can have cooled gloveboxes, cruise control, headlamps that swivel in corners, power-adjustable seats, and other big-car features.
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