Ford Focus Hatchback (05-11) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on 17 January 2008

Last Updated: 13 January 2011

Developing a replacement for the much-loved original Focus was an unenviable task, but Ford has successfully delivered. The second generation Focus is stylish, well equipped and is proving itself to be reliable. Plus while it's still as good to drive as ever, there's now more interior space and a genuine feeling of quality. A mid-life facelift means that people who buy a Focus from January 2008 get an even better car. As well as a Mondeo look front end, the interior has been vastly upgraded with better materials and more attention to detail. The eco-friendly ECOnetic model - available from January 2008 - was improved in late 2009 with CO2 emissions dropping to 99g/km, making it free to tax, while economy increased to 74mpg thanks to the introduction of an engine start-stop system.

4.5 out of 5

Other Ford reviews

4.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£11,695 - £20,845

Used price range:

£2,405 - £15,210

View all used prices

Get a Ford Focus Hatchback (05-11) information pack

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Good to drive, smart looking, wide choice of engines and trim levels, comfortable interior, refined ride, low emissions ECOnetic model available

Boot and rear passenger space could be more practical

For the review of the latest Ford Focus Hatchback click here

Driving & Performance

Performance

4 out of 5
"The petrol engines range from a 1.4-litre to 2.0-litre unit. The 1.6-litre is available in two forms..."
Handling

4.5 out of 5
"One of the Focus's greatest strengths is its handling. Even models with modest powerplants offer an..."

Comfort

Comfort

4 out of 5
"The cabin of the Focus feels spacious and comfortable and there is easily room enough for five..."
Practicality

4 out of 5
"There's a generously sized load area and rear seats offer the usual 60/40 split folding capability."
Equipment

3 out of 5
"Trim levels starting from the most basic are Studio, LX, Zetec, Ghia and Titanium. All models get..."
Behind the wheel

4.5 out of 5
"Ford has worked hard to raise quality in an attempt to take the fight to the Volkswagen Golf and the..."

Costs

Running costs

4 out of 5
"As it's a Ford you can expect day-to-day running costs to be typically affordable. Depreciation..."
Green credentials

4 out of 5
"The Focus performs very well on the eco front as its emissions are relatively low for a small family..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

5 out of 5
"Virtually all models get six airbags (the base model Studio has to make do without curtain airbags)..."
Reliability

4.5 out of 5
"It has been on sale since 2005 and no significant problems have yet appeared. Owners have reported..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

3.5 out of 5
"Dealers might still be reluctant to offer a big discount, however it's a competitive market, so a..."
Buying used

3.5 out of 5
"The Focus makes a great used buy and you're liking to get more for your money than an equivalent..."
Selling

3.5 out of 5
"The Focus is very easy to sell as it’s enduringly popular with family buyers looking to combine..."