Ford Focus C-MAX (2003 - 2010) 2.0 TDCi Ghia 5d (Euro 4) (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Its a practical machine that can be used for any number of functions. I have no kids but the wife likes the driving position height and space. I can't believe people buy Picasso's in preference to these they must be bonkers! Cheap is not always the best way to go. A secondhand one of these is emminently prefereable to a new Picasso. You could not ask for more.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

It's a bonny car in Tonic blue

Would you buy this car again and why?

Perhaps, The wife loves the S Max for the reasons above but I would like the ST version if it was affordable. I looked at other cars in its sector but this was the best value and best to drive. Always get the Ghia and best diesel engine if you can it just makes it more saleable when your finished with it.

What are you likely to buy next?

I suspect with current market trends we may well have to downsize and look at a smaller jeep perhaps one of the new Nissan's, although now being owned by Renault a breakdown recovery friend of mine says they are not the cars they were because of the French influence, shame.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£12,465

When did you buy the car?

August 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

The car was seen on the net, it was the right colour and spec and was transported up for inspection. A much better way of getting what you want rather than trawling hundreds of dealers.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Had PT cruiser petrol which was too heavy on fuel for short journeys

What was the dealer like?

Average, the car was not cleaned properly when we went to see it and was not immaculate when we went ot pick it up, cleanliness wise. It gave a poor impression. The car itself was fine though apart from dirt.

What's it like to drive?

Brilliant, no different to the hatchback. The performance is effortless;it is wasted on british roads. There is always massive power for any situation. Cruising is so easy and can catch you out because its so effortless. No wonder they use it in the S Max. They rave about its performance in that car, believe me its even better in the C Max. The economy is working out as around 45 mpg, on a run it'll easily hit 60 and even in local runs and stop start driving it rarely dips below about 38. What more could you ask for.

What's it like to park?

Light steering, good visibility, no problems.

Have you had any problems with the car?

It has broken down twice, first an EGR valve, then a flat battery. That aside nothing ha gone wrong and the two breakdowns, perhaps one was the wife's fault so I'm not too upset. Ford Assist gave me a GT Golf for the repair period and it was hassle free.

What's most practical about your car?

People keep saying that they are a waste of money as they offer little more than the Focus hathback. Rubbish! The boot is massive and the space inside with the higher roofline and slightly raised driving position makes it feel a much bigger car. It can cost you no more with discounts.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Automatic headlights and wipers are cool but it is generally a very practical car without to many gimmicks. The Electronic handbrake takes getting used too, I'm still undecided about that.