Ford Focus Hatchback (2005 - 2011) 1.8 Style 5d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I thought it said I liked driving and wanted the best handling hatch around. In reality it seems to say you've followed the crowd and are not interested in style, or fun, just want something to get the job done.

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

Noone ever really liked it thinking it was bland, boring and average, not that comfortable and thirsty.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. Its too common and a bit bland inside and out. Driving didn't excite like the first generation either. Would recommend it as a solid purchase for a family though thats pleasant to drive in a more sedate manner and nice and practical.

What are you likely to buy next?

Now own an alfa mito.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£10,600

When did you buy the car?

December 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes. £4800 off list price.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Good spec for price paid.

What was the dealer like?

Pretty good. Gave a decent explanation of all the cars features.

What's it like to drive?

Not as good as the mark 1 focus. Just felt bigger and less agile through the turns. Electronic steering robs car of feel compared to hydraullic in mark one. Engine smooth but needs to be worked hard to get performance out of it. Gear shift good so not a chore doing this. Not that much torque. With 4 people and luggage in felt much slower than driving by myself. Ride firm but comfortable, handling a bit soft and certainly not as good as expecting. Didn't feel very sporty.

What's it like to park?

Quite difficult, bonnet not easy to see, visability a bit poor. Get parking sensors to make it easier.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing went wrong but there were some niggles, namely noisy power steering pump (auidable whine about 10-20 mph), and what sounds like worn suspension bushes. Apparantly the former definitely normal, the latter couldn't be heard due to high winds on the day brought in! Reliable though, never let me down once. Started 1st time every time.

What's most practical about your car?

Very practical 5 seat hatch, enough rear space for 5 at a push, 4 comfortably and a decent sized boot. Fitted in ikea furniture no problem.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Sport pack. Alloys looked like focus ST and made it look much smarter.