Should you buy one?

If driving thrills are at the top of your list of priorities but you still need a thoroughly practical family car, the Ford Focus ST hot hatch is well worth a look. It’s got plenty of space inside for passengers, and the estate version offers extra boot space if the hatchback isn’t big enough.

However, competition is fierce. For example, the Volkswagen Golf GTI is classier (especially inside) and the Hyundai i30 N is even more exciting – especially as the Focus doesn’t always feel as fast as 280hp suggests it should do.

We’d suggest a lengthy test drive of every rival before you finally take the plunge, though as an all-rounder the Focus ST certainly isn’t short of appeal. Comfort levels are just the right side of tolerable, you get loads of standard kit, and this is an easy car to handle whether you’re cruising through town, covering distances on the motorway or hacking along your favourite backroad.

What we like

The Focus’ agile handling and crisp manual gearbox make it a joy to drive, while the suspension is soft enough for day to day use if you stay away from the firmer settings. Plentiful rear seat space and plenty of standard equipment also appeal, while the Track Pack brings extra agility.

What we don’t like

All versions are rather pricey now and the interior feels a bit low-rent, especially compared to premium-badged rivals like the BMW 128ti. You have to work the auto quite hard before it feels properly fast, too.

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