Ford Focus
by Jackie Smithson
In April this year I bought a new Focus Zetec. I must admit, I am not a fan of the Focus's 'new edge' look, but the three-door, with its Motorsport Rally associations, that I could live with.
Now I have owned a Ka, Fiesta ('96 model), Escort (Mk6) and Puma (1.7), and I loved the driving dynamics of both the Ka and the Puma. Well, when I test-drove the Focus, I found it better than the Ka and equal to the Puma. Roadholding is astonishing for what is meant to be a family saloon. It corners with ease, the brakes give a real feeling of confidence and the steering is sharp and precise (without being 'nervy').
After the test-drive, I was smitten with everything apart from the looks. Then I discovered the Ford RS bodykit - well, that was it. Luckily, a good friend of mine works at my local Ford dealer and he informed me that if I placed an order before 30 April I could have the car at cost price (something to do with the need to meet sales/bonus targets). So I placed an order for a Focus Zetec in light sapphire blue, together with the Ford RS bodykit and a Puma alloy gearknob (old habits die hard). I have enclosed a couple of pics of the car.
Six months later, all I can say is that I haven't stopped smiling yet. Until I can get the new RS Focus, I'll be holding onto this car (pretty rare for me). Every time I drive it, I am amazed at how well the overall package suits me: coupe looks, motorsport heritage, room for two child seats (the doors are nice and wide, too), good (though not outstanding) performance from the Zetec engine, a good audio package - and, best of all, the excellent handling.
I would rate the Focus as 9.5 out of 10. 
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