Ford Focus review (2011-2018)
The Ford Focus completely rewrote the rulebook for family cars when it was introduced in 1998. And, just like a certain US manufacturer and their smartphone, Ford has been making its product better and better with every new generation launched. For solo drivers, couples and families, it doesn't get much more impressive than this. Read our Ford Focus review below for more details.
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Pros
- Practical family car
- Great to drive
- Dependable
Cons
- A 'boring' choice
- Rivals have nicer interiors
Interior
Our rating: 7/10
Driving position
Compared with the outgoing Mk2 Focus, the Mk3 grew a little in length.
Wherever you are in the car, you'll be sitting pretty comfortably, thanks to impressive head and legroom front and rear. Three adults can easily fit into the rear seats.
Getting comfortable behind the wheel before you drive off is also a doddle, thanks to the excellent range of driving positions on offer and the comfortable and supportive seats.
Again, you get the feeling that with the Focus, Ford's designers and engineers raised the bar that little bit higher than they strictly had to.
The steering wheel looks great and feels just right to hold.
Tech and features
The instrument dials have a cheeky hint of sportiness that ties in nicely with the exterior's dynamic looks and fun handling.
If you choose one of the ultra-sporting ST or RS models, that ‘racing car’ feel is amped up higher – a lot higher.
You don't have to go for an ST to enjoy a generous equipment specification, though.
Even early Mk3 entry-level models come equipped with air-conditioning and digital radio, helping you 'chill' in every sense of the word.
Performance
Our rating: 9/10
Handling and ride comfort
Excellent – next question, please.
Seriously though, Ford’s engineers got it right with the very first Focus, and they still haven't broken that streak.
If you make a car great fun to drive and make it more nimble and agile than it actually needs to be, you’ll always get great reviews from critics.
Plus, the cabin is well insulated from outside noise. So, even if it's blowing a gale on the motorway, you'll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Practicality
Our rating: 7/10
Boot space
All models feature split rear seats, and when you fold them down you get an excellent flat base.
This makes it easier to slide flatpack wardrobes in and out, and the boot with the seats up holds enough soft-bag luggage for five occupants.
It’s not the largest in the class - both the Astra and the Golf offer more space. Cabin stowage is fine with large door bins and a big central cubby.
Running costs
Our rating: 8/10
While early versions of the new Mk4 Focus may still be just out of your budget range, the good news is that its arrival caused a dip in used Mk3 prices, making that version more affordable.
Fuel economy
There’s an impressive range of petrol and diesel engines to choose from – even the smallest 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbo petrol packs an impressive punch.
Still, if you regularly carry many passengers and luggage on board, we'd recommend the 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbo petrol engine.
For the long commuters out there, the 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine, with its 80mpg claimed fuel economy, is your best bet.
The verdict
Interior
7/10
Performance
9/10
Practicality
7/10
Running costs
8/10
The Ford Focus has stayed true to its winning formula of family-car practicality and driving fun, then wrapped those original values up in a thoroughly modern-looking package.
It remains a solid pick in the jam-packed hatchback segment, and definitely one to consider.
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