Ford Focus Saloon (05-09) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Small saloons have never caught on in the UK. Unlike the rest of mainland Europe, British buyers prefer hatchbacks and it's easy to see why. The Focus saloon is a perfect example - it's not as practical as the hatch version, nor as good looking and although the boot is a good size, it can't cope with large or bulky items. The range of engines is slimmed down (there's no low emissions ECOnetic version) but from behind the wheel there's no difference from the standard car, the Focus saloon handles well, is easy to drive and has an excellent interior. In early 2008 the model was facelfited with a new front end and a much improved interior. It' still the same price as the five-door hatch, but unless you must have a boot, there seems little reason to choose one.
3.5 out of 5

Other Ford reviews

5 out of 5

Safety

The Focus saloon is only available in higher trim levels, which means all cars have good safety equipment including six airbags. Euro NCAP rate it as a five-star car for crash protection - the maximum score. Optional safety equipment includes adaptive headlights and a traction and stability control system.

NCAP Test

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  • 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

The previous Focus model was very reliable - just a handful of minor niggles were reported during its lifetime. There's no reason to expect this one to be any different.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.