Spotlight On The New Ford Focus
It’s been a while since we caught up with the good old Ford Focus on our blog. So, we thought we would put things right and see what 2016 has for the stalwart of roads all over the world. The Focus has had a fantastic past, and as Ford’s primary family hatchback, it should have a long and fruitful future.
However, the trouble with popular cars is often that manufacturers never like reinventing the wheel. Minor upgrades and additions are all well and good, but most of the time, you know what to expect. With this in mind, how does the new Focus hold up – and have Ford taken any gambles? Let’s get down to it and find out more about the 2016 edition of the Ford Focus.
The basics
Ford is releasing the Focus with a broad range of flavours this year. There are a few petrol engines that you can upgrade to two turbochargers, and there’s a good range of diesel, too. And, of course, there is a choice of hybrid or electric. If you want to get the most out of your ride, then you should look out for the ST models. Yes, they are expensive, but they offer a much greater performance on the roads. Regarding price; well, it depends on your budget.
The lower spec models can be yours from just over £17,000. The top spec versions – in particular, the Electric 5dr Auto – come in at considerably more than £31,000. At this point, it’s worth noting that last year’s Focus is suffering a little from depreciation. A quick glance over at used dealers Sandles Car Supermarket shows a second-hand model for less than £13,800. That’s a considerable drop over one year. Although it’s a bargain for used car buyers, it might put some people off buying the 2016 version., Time will tell, of course.
The look
The Focus underwent a revamp during 2014, and the bodywork stays true to this update. It is instantly apparent that you are in a Focus, though – this is a modern mainstream classic, after all. So, you will get the sporty looking chrome grill and a narrow, contemporary set of headlights. All in all, it’s an unfussy but attractive family hatchback. Your opinion of the inside of the Focus will depend largely on what model you end up buying. The driver’s seat in all models is comfortable, and the dash is simple but effective. It isn’t the best we have seen in its class, but there’s enough to love it – especially if you go for the optional 8-inch touchscreen.
Where the new Focus is lacking is in the quality of the upholstery. Yes, it’s comfortable enough – but enough might not be good enough when you have super-comfy competitors like the Audi A3. The whole thing just feels a little cheap and at the price you pay, we would expect a bit more.
Driving
The new Focus does, however, excel on the roads. Ford know what they are doing with their popular hatchback, and it’s a great little ride for a family car. It has great damper control which makes bumps feel less impactful, and you can drive smooth on a variety of surfaces. You’ll take corners with ease, too, and although it isn’t the best in class, it beats most of its rivals hands down. Agility is the key, here. Everything feels like it is under your control, and other than a harsh snap back when the wheel centres, it’s great engineering at work. Families will love the hushed tones of the Focus, too. The standard version is quiet enough, but the Ecoboost engines barely make a purr.
Gadgets
While Ford expects you to pay a fair amount more than you would for some of its rivals, they do give you some bang for your buck. There is plenty of gadgets and entertainment included in all models of the new Focus. You will get a CD player, DAB radio, voice control and a USB input for the base model and up. And, a small, 4.2-inch colour screen to hold it all together. Upgrades are available, of course. Including the 8-inch touchscreen, we mentioned earlier. You can also request satnav. So, a well-equipped car, no doubt. But there is a slight issue in that the standard touchscreen is a little lackadaisical. It doesn’t have the best UI we have ever played with, and you’ll need to flick through a lot of screens to get what you need. Not ideal for when it’s super busy and intense on the road.
Space and practicality
Ford have always been generous when it comes to driver and front passenger areas. And, it’s no different for their 2015 model. There is plenty of legroom, and the height of the cabin is enough for very tall adults to sit in comfort. In the back, however, it’s a different story. Sure, the Focus is a hatchback for parents with young kids – and there is plenty of room for a couple of child or baby seats. Older kids should be OK, up until they reach the teenage years, and this is where the problems start. There just isn’t enough legroom in the back for adults and tall people are going to struggle. The boot space is a disappointment, too. Again, given the Focus is a vehicle aimed at families, it seems a little odd they haven’t supplied lots of space.
Conclusion
With a lot of different models and engines to choose from, it takes some doing to work out which is best. We think the Focus Zetec shades it – due to a nice balance of price, looks and features. The ST is the one to go for if you like a more high-powered ride, however. There is plenty to enjoy about the entry level Focus Style, but we don’t think it quite has enough when you look at the price. Given the depreciation we’re seeing on last year’s model, it might be worth holding off for the secondhand market.
