Category: Small Family 
Price Range: £12,495 to £16,700
Looks like good value, good ride quality, different
Build not as good as rivals, entry-level petrol too slow
If you're a bit bored with Ford Focus default choice, check this out. Just don't expect it to be as good to drive.




The interior is one of the Caliber's strongest points and it's been designed to appeal to younger buyers, too. The dashboard is available with various funky-coloured centre consoles and seat inserts. Among the features we like are MusicGate, an optional speaker on the inside of the boot hatch which flips down so your favourite tunes can be heard outside the car. And there's a removable torch built into the roof lining above the boot which is permanently on charge.
Front seat occupants are generously accommodated, but tall rear-seat passengers will find legroom a little on the tight side, although headroom is acceptable.
The rear bench seat splits 60/40 and folds flat, offering 523 litres of boot space up and 1,360 down. In addition, the front passenger folds completely flat to provide a tray for the driver or back-seat passengers. For a little extra comfort (or head room) the back seats recline about 12 degrees.
The glovebox features an air-conditioned section for storing chilled drinks and the sliding centre armrest incorporates a storage area for an MP3 music player or mobile phone. But oddly, given the car's youthful aspirations, there's no option of plugging in an iPod.
Another feature we like is the front cup holders' illuminated base, making it's easier to replace your drink in the dark.