Ford Focus Estate (05-11) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 16 December 2008
As small estates go, the Focus is often overlooked in favour of more stylish models. Which is a real shame as it makes a great car for load lugging thanks to a excellent boot space and a wide, long load area. Of course being a Ford it is also great to drive and loses none of the handling prowess of the Focus hatchback, with the same responsive steering and good body control. With supple suspension it also rides well, even with a full load on board and there's decent rear passenger space too. A great range of engines is available, our pick being the excellent TDCi units, which offer a blend of punchy performance and impressive fuel economy. The model was facelifted in January 2008 with sharper looks and improved interior quality while a low emissions ECOnetic version was also available for the first time. In 2009 the eco version was improved to lowering emissions and averaging 70mpg.
4 out of 5

Other Ford reviews

5 out of 5

Safety

Virtually all models get six airbags (the base model Studio has to make do without curtain airbags) while the Focus scored a maximum five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests for front and side impact. Optional safety equipment includes adaptive headlights and a traction and stability control system called ESP. Originally a £250 option this was made standard on facelifted models from 2008. Anti-theft measures should be pretty good with all models getting an immobiliser and an alarm is fitted on higher spec models.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5
  • Child Protection Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
4.5 out of 5

Reliability

It has been on sale since 2005 and no significant problems have yet appeared. Owners have reported to us that this Focus is very reliable - much like the previous model.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported

Other

No problems reported.