Ford Focus (2005-2008) Review

Overview

• Next: Reliability and Quality

The previous-generation Focus was a difficult car to replace. It set new standards in its class when it was first launched in 1997, and remained competitive right up to the end of its build run, outclassed only by newer rivals in areas such as interior quality and ride comfort. Its replacement, introduced early in 2005, addresses the old car's weaknesses, whilst improving the already-strong areas such as the ergonomics and driving experience. Stiffer-bodied, wider and with a longer wheelbase than the outgoing model, ride quality, rear legroom and luggage space have all been improved.

This Focus shares its basic underpinnings with the more upmarket (and expensive) Volvo S40 and V50 and the Mazda3, as well as with the Focus C-MAX compact MPV (see separate road test). Available as a three- or five-door hatchback, a roomy estate, four-door saloon or even as a folding metal roofed coupe-cabriolet (see separate road test). A high-performance ST version, with a 225bhp turbocharged 2.5-litre engine as in the Volvo S40/V50 T5, is also offered (see separate road test).