Ford Focus Hatchback (2005 - 2011) 1.8 TDCi Sport 5d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Like most Yorkshiremen, I'm careful with my money! Seriously though, I'm not too bothered about image as I think the admen can con people to pay silly prices for a badge.

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

They seem impressed as it's solidly build and looks and drives well, plus diesel seems to have acquired some kudos.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Would certainly consider another, but hope that it'll be good for 5 or 6 years and that even better motors will be available in 2012.

What are you likely to buy next?

Practical all-round family motor, not a gas guzzler though or SUV (image too selfish for me).

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£11,000

When did you buy the car?

May 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

They did a good deal designed to tie in with the world cup, plus I got a reasonable trade in for my old high mileage escort zetec.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Offer by local ford dealer, it's diesel and does >45mpg. It's big enough for family camping weekends with a roofbox.

What was the dealer like?

Good. First franchised dealer I've bought from and seemed professional enough. Good PDI for example.

What's it like to drive?

Handles a lot better than my old K reg astra or T reg escort finesse. The diesel pull like a train with lots of torque. Less gear changing in town and a good surge of power from the turbo at 1800rpm for overtaking. Stalls more easily than a petrol though, but I've got used to it.

What's it like to park?

Each car I've bought over the last 10 years has got more difficult to reverse with, and this is no exception - indifferent rear visibility. My old K reg astra was much better! In all fairness though most newer cars seem to have the same fault.

Have you had any problems with the car?

I'm not sure that the low fuel warning light hasn't packed in, or whether I've never run the fuel down low enough! Not something I'm willing to experiment with, so I'll have them have a look under their warrenty.

What's most practical about your car?

Fantastic MPG. 45 mpg even in mostly urban commuting. Fuel spend down from £30 pm to £20 (long trips excepting). With 115hp it's also got enough grunt for long fast motorway trips fully laden, even with a roofbox.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Adjustable steering wheel's nice, as is ABS and aircon.