Ford Focus Econetic 1.6 TDCi DPF

IT’S one of the best family hatches around – and the fact you can now buy a Ford Focus with 70mpg potential and 99g/km emissions is big news.

The 1.6-litre TDCi-powered 104g/km ECOnetic comes with 89hp and 108bhp outputs – but it’s only the latter, £450 more expensive, stop/start model that dips below the magic 100g/km mark.

Recent price cuts mean it now costs £17,345, and even in its most frugal trim you can’t help but be impressed by the Focus’s handling. Although it’s a bit long in the tooth, the car is still superb to drive, and a drag-reducing bodykit, reduced ride height and low resistance tyres make it hugely efficient.

The stop/start system is smooth, while the TDCi engine isn’t overly harsh or intrusive. Plus, despite long gearing – which allows the Focus to do 90mph in third gear – the car doesn’t suffer from sluggish low-speed responses, thanks to its 215Nm torque output.

It’s practical, great to drive and now more competitively priced: tax-free, green motoring is a great thing when it comes with so few compromises.
Rating: *****