| DRIVING RATING: |
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The Focus is one of the most user-friendly cars on the market. The Focus's slightly upright stance means that visibility is excellent, with only the saloon having a mildly restricted rear view because of the lengthy boot. The steering is power-assisted and the steering wheel seems just the right size for twiddling when parking, while all of the controls - steering, pedals and gearbox - have a nicely integrated, smooth, progressive feel. Minor controls - switches, stalks, stereo controls - are all thoughtfully laid-out and clearly marked, too, as are all of the dials and warning lights. For an ordinary hatchback, they don't get much better than this. Responsive, linear steering, a very composed ride and secure handling mean it's easy to make brisk progress. The 1.6 and ST170's 2.0-litre petrol engines are particularly appealing, and work well with snappy, positive manual gearbox. The ST170 is even more fun than the standard hatch, but could still use a bit more power to match its on-road capabilities. The Focus RS gives you that extra power, and some sporting extras such as big Brembo brakes and revised suspension, which is why we've reviewed it separately.
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