Ford Focus Estate (2011 - 2018) ST-Line (Navigation) 1.5T EcoBoost 150PS auto 5d Owner Review

To say my Ford Focus ST Line Estate was used would be in the loosest possible meaning of the word. At six months old it had only covered 800 miles and Ford Head Office was the previous keeper. It had lingered in Ford's gadget department and been used a corporate demonstrator. For me there were a bucket load of firsts buying this car. Although bought through a dealership the car was in Essex, I was in Somerset the car being for sale through Ford Direct, so viewed on line and not on the forecourt. Although the photographs ticked all my boxes, I had never contemplated spending so much money on a car, it would be my first estate (albeit a small one) and was fitted with an automatic transmission. I had only ever driven that type of gearbox as a holiday hire car, having only ever owned manuals since passing my test in nineteen long time ago. After a little soul searching the words that finally sealed the deal were from my darling wife who said " go on you know you like it so you might as well take the plunge and buy it, besides if you don't like it you can always sell it again." A few minutes later my order was being processed and I was pondering the delivery of my new car, not viewed up close and not test driven. What could possibly go wrong? As it turns out Absolutely nothing!!! It arrived at the dealership, was valeted and ready for collection as arranged. The car looks so much better in the metal, white paintwork, blacked windows and trim, stunning alloys and subtle but aggressive styling. Sitting behind the wheel everything feels natural and familiar with everything were it is supposed to be. The cockpit wraps itself around the driver and the seating position and support is spot on. On the road for the first time I felt my worries evaporate. Any concerns about using an automatic gearbox were unfounded. The gear changes are smooth and in 'flappy paddle sport mode' seamless.The engine is willing and together with the turbo delivers its power in a linear style with no harsh steps in acceleration. I don't worry too much about 0-60 times but the car gets to the top national speed limit quicker than most and keeps accelerating effortlessly to three figure speeds with driver and passengers in comfort (with more than adequate leg room). The car starts first time every time on the button (literally there is no key) is sure footed in all weather conditions and on all types of road (motorway to country road), has barely noticeable road noise despite 18 inch rubber boots and has the best heated screen I have ever experienced. Frozen screen completely cleared in about 10 seconds!! My ultimate test of a car is simple. Does it put a smile on your face when you see it for the first time each day. If that's the case you are close to YOUR personal car perfection. After living with my ST Line for eight months not only does it put a smile on my face first thing every day, it makes me smile every time I see it but I feel like a teenager again and at my age that is some accomplishment. If I hadn't taken to the Focus I know I could have sold it on easily for virtually the same price i paid, (the wife was right). The ST Line will however be parked on my drive for a long while to come.