Ford has worked hard to raise quality in an attempt to take the fight to the Volkswagen Golf and the interior is well finished with soft touch materials. The appearance of the interior is much improved on facelifted cars and shows more attention to detail – particularly around the instruments. The driving position offers plenty of adjustment, especially if the car has electrically adjustable seats while the variable assistance power steering makes for easy parking and plenty of feedback on the move

The cabin of the Focus feels spacious and comfortable and there is easily room enough for five adults with good head and legroom – even in the rear. It’s a refined environment in which to travel, especially on long journeys with limited engine and road noise. However, both estate version of the Vauxhall Astra and Renault Megane have a longer wheelbase, offering generous legroom for rear occupants.

The Focus can’t quite match them for rear passenger space.