Search Car Reviews



See all makes



Ford Focus v Rivals

Face Value

Can a mid-life makeover return the Ford Focus to the top of the family hatch class? We find out as it tackles key rivals from Peugeot, Nissan and Honda

test 04

Photos: Pete Gibson March 2008

IT’S easy to underestimate the influence the Ford Focus has had on the automotive world.

In pre-Focus days, cheap family hatches came in the form of the dull Escort and the Vauxhall Astra. But in 1998, Ford proved a hatchback could be stylish, practical and great to drive when it launched the first Focus. Now, the second-generation of the UK’s best-seller has been totally updated with a restyled body and more upmarket interior.

And as the first cars arrive in showrooms, we grabbed the opportunity to put the latest Focus through its paces on British roads, and find out whether the Mondeo-style makeover goes far enough. Standing in the Ford’s way is a tough reception committee.

First up is the Peugeot 308. It’s charged with raising the French firm’s image, and with its improved interior quality, has the Focus in sight. Next is the Nissan Qashqai. As with the Focus 10 years ago, the Japanese model aims to revolutionise the market. We’re big fans of the SUV styling and well built interior, while the company’s legendary reliability is a strong selling point.

Last but not least is our current class favourite, the Honda Civic. Although its looks won’t be to everyone’s taste, there is no denying its talents in many areas.

In this test, all four models battle it out in petrol guise. The question is, are the changes Ford has made enough to put the Focus back on the top step of the podium?

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

Social Bookmarks

Full Car Reviews

Honda rear

1st Honda Civic 1.8 ES

When it comes to visual impact, few cars can match the Civic. Even two years after its launch, the mould-breaking design still catches the eye.
Focus rear

2nd Ford Focus 2.0 Zetec

Improved, refined and redesigned. That is how Ford describes the latest Focus, although we’d also like to add conservative to that list.
Nissan front

3rd Nissan Qashqai Visia

Designed to blend the agility and comfort of a hatchback with the strength and practicality of an SUV, the Qashqai is Nissan’s alternative to the standard five-door.
Peugeot front

4th Peugeot 308 1.6 THP 150 SE

Considering this is the first of Peugeot’s new ‘8’ generation of models, you’d be forgiven for thinking more of a fanfare might have been made about the launch.
- Advertisement -

Sponsored Results

Facts and Figures

Verdict

THESE are four fine family hatches, each with a strong selling point. And although the 308 finishes last, its grown-up road manners and excellent turbo powerplant make up for shortcomings in other areas. The Peugeot is let down by a weak five-speed gearbox and poor packaging.

Choosing between the remaining three cars isn’t easy, but the best all-rounder is the Civic. The Japanese hatchback continues to impress with its unique design, excellent dynamics and practical interior. The Focus comes a very close second. Its sharper lines are a welcome addition, as are the cabin enhancements, and as before, it’s a rewarding driver’s machine.

Again by the thinnest of margins, third place goes to the Qashqai – by no means a disgrace. Marking it down in this company is the fact that it lacks the interior versatility of the Honda, plus isn’t quite as good to drive as the Focus.

 
- Advertisement -