Ford Focus Hatchback (2005 - 2011) 1.6 LX 5d (2006/55) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Nothing. Which is how I like it.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Parents own a C-Max and like mine a lot. My brother quite wants one. My friends are only interested in speed and big wheels so the Focus has no appeal for them.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, although next time I would get a 1.8 Mk 2.5 as it is far better looking and would be that bit quicker but with similar economy.
What are you likely to buy next?
A Mk 2.5 Estate or, if finances allow, a Mk 3.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£5,000
When did you buy the car?
February 2010
Did you get a good deal and why?
So-so. They gave me a silly (good) amount of money for my banger 206 that I bought as a temporary car before.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Handling above all, but the value was a big plus and the huge boot swallows my mountain bike nicely.
What was the dealer like?
Perfectly helpful, although they kept me waiting for an hour to test drive the car despite an appointment having been made. I only didn't walk because of the mileage and price.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Exceptional. Most people will know the car's reputation for handling, but honestly it puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. As an ex rental company employee I have driven almost everything out there, and nothing of this type or price comes close. On the downside, the ride can be crashy over broken surfaces and it can skip a little on broken concrete. Visibility is excellent and the gearbox is slick, smooth and precise.
What's it like to park?
Easy enough, although the C pillars provide quite large blindspots. I can see the end of the bonnet though, which is a positive and quite unusual.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
It won't start from time to time and the air con has been recharged twice and lasts 3 months, so I presume there is a leak.
What's most practical about your car?
The boot is huge and easily swallows my bike and gear. I like the simplicity of the car. No fancy stuff to go wrong.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
It's an LX; it has very few gadgets. I suppose the follow me home lamps are useful as my drive is down a dark, unlit lane.
