The Ford Focus isn't just the best-selling car in this class, it's one of the best-selling cars in the world and has had plaudit upon plaudit bestowed upon it since its acclaimed launch in 1998, when it replaced the ageing Escort. The Focus range has gone from strength to strength; from its initial three- and five-door hatchback range an estate and saloon have been added, while new engine options like the excellent TDCi turbodiesel and the 2.0-litre turbo unit in the hot Focus RS have kept it in the headlines and at the top of the best-sellers list. It's due to be replaced in 2005, but is still one of the very best cars in this class and it's difficult to see many rivals bettering it over the coming year or two.