Ford Focus Hatchback (2005 - 2011) 1.6 Zetec 5d (08) Owner Review

Have had years of Mondeos but as the 53 plate Ghia came to the end, time to downsize as the next Mondeo along is huge. We needed petrol and manual but all else was up for grabs. Test drove a Sport (really uncomfortable) and a very well used estate before settling on this. Garage did cambelt change as it was almost due anyway, plus minor service - car had a fair service history and no shockers on the MOT records. only had it a couple of months and we don't do much mileage but apart from an ABS light (now sorted) am happy. Admittedly standards aren't high, just pleased not to have a puddle of water inside, notchy steering, aircon that didn't work and so on! Driver and passenger space good and there's a lot of glass round you so visibility is excellent. Drives well although more internal noise than the Mondeo, ride is generally comfortable (we are middle aged, it matters!) but rough surfaces much more noticeable. Have yet to do a long drive . Rear passenger space is adequate, boot obviously smaller than Mondeo but plenty of room for my weekly shop, and should take a pushbike with the seats down. Obviously much easier to fit into the spaces at Aldi which sadly is my main driving now... The stupid spoiler on the back not only looks awful but means the rear gets filthy, and you need to use the rear wiper while driving in rain - this may be a general 'stumpy hatchback' problem but never had it with my Mondeos. It has to be washed more often if you are to see out the back. Rear lights also not as good, only one fog light and one reverser so nowhere near the illumination or visibility that I have been used to. Front lights do seem good. dashboard is a bit bright and there's no way to turn it down, so don't be fooled into thinking that the lights are on when they aren't! The Ford stereo is ok, at least has the CD I want (I do miss my Ghia autochanger..) plus 8 presets and a steering wheel control. There is an MP3 connector in the glovebox but yet to use it. The computer is fiddly but can be left set on current fuel consumption. Only came with one key, bought a non-remote from a local key man and then the remote on ebay as a spare, you can reprogramme those yourself in the car. Be aware of the 'crystal maze' challenge if using a non-remote key, once you open the door you have about 12 secs to get to ignition position 2 or the horn will start, and don't let anyone open any other doors first. fuel consumption seems good on our shortish runs. certainly don't go any lower in spec than this, and next time I may choose a Titanium - but make sure you avoid the Ecoboost if you do. early days but so far so good, does what is needed.