Ford Focus

April 2002

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Not long ago, family motoring was a passport to boredom and drudgery. But things are different now, thanks to models which successfully combine pleasure with practicality. Cars such as Ford's Focus!

Following in the tyre tracks of the evergreen Escort, the Focus had its work cut out to become the nation's favourite. But so far it has managed to appeal to all types of owners. The question is whether this includes used buyers. We find out here...

Driving
Since its launch back in 1998, the Focus has been the benchmark for its class. While others can match it, none can top it.
The handling is exceptional, and the soothing ride and comfort qualities are equally impressive. In line with all modern Fords, the Focus is both user-friendly and pleasant to drive. And there's one for all pockets, with the reliable, pacy engines ranging from 1.4 to 2.0 litres.

While buying the model with the smallest capacity does make sense for those wanting to save on road tax, the difference in fuel economy between the 74bhp Fiesta-sourced 1.4-litre Zetec unit and the 99bhp 1.6 alternative is minimal. You can expect both to return around 38-40mpg.

Yet the gulf in performance is substantial. While the 1.4 needs to be worked hard, the 1.6 has ample pace for most drivers.For easier overtaking, plump for the 113bhp 1.8 litre, which is still good for more than 35mpg, while the understated 128bhp 2.0 Focus is the closest there is to an XR3i.

However, the cheapest and most showy of all Focus variants is the Zetec. This version is fitted with sports suspension, which highlights the Ford's already sharp cornering skills. The 2.0 models also feature ESP anti-skid control for precise braking.

The diesel Focus isn't quite so impressive, though. Badged TDi, this development of the Escort turbodiesel is an improvement, but it still can't match the best from Vauxhall, Volkswagen or Peugeot in terms of performance and refinement. That said, the Ford unit is still very frugal.

An automatic gearbox didn't figure until 1999, and even then it was for the 1.6 variants only. It's a responsive four-speed system, although these are rare on the forecourts. Also hard to find are the 1.8-litre LPG-powered versions, although if you do see one, prices shouldn't be much higher than a standard model's.

Living with
As with the exterior, the Ford's cabin is radically styled and well presented. The Focus is roomy for its class and feels nearly as big as the old Mondeo.

Of the three body styles, the three and five-door hatchbacks are by far the most popular thanks to their style and practicality. The saloon is the least desirable with the trade, while the estates are rare. Try to ignore the base CL trim. It's not austere, in fact it comes with central locking, electric windows and an immobiliser. It's simply that the LX and Zetec specs are the preferred models and easier to sell on. The LX adds better trim, air-conditioning (on post-April 1999 examples), a heated front windscreen, tinted glass and a CD player. Later examples also come with alloy wheels.

However, the Zetec is the model that attracts by far the most interest. A sporty offshoot of the LX, it has some additional bodykit, different alloys, mesh grille, grey-look dash features, sports-style seats, front foglamps and, most importantly, sports suspension. However, not all Zetecs have air-conditioning.

The top Focus is the Ghia, although apart from some wood grain cabin decor, it's not as plush as you would expect. In addition, there are two dedicated option packs: Reflex and Climate. The former is safety-related, with ABS, all-round disc brakes as well as side airbags, while Climate includes air-conditioning, heated washer jets and powered/heated door mirrors. The latter is actually a must for the Zetec as it brings the car in line with LX trim. Any model without this option should also be significantly cheaper, so make sure you check it out.

Buying and owning
As with the Escort, the Focus is known by workshops across the land and holds few surprises for any mechanic. Apart from a massive network of 800 dealers, the company also operates Rapid Fit, a fast-fit line geared specifically to Ford owners. No other car is as comforting or cost-effective as something with that blue oval badge clipped on to the grille.

The second-hand market is awash with Focuses and prices can vary greatly as a result. Main dealers charge top dollar, but those which operate Ford Direct (around 400) offer not only fully refurbished and serviced examples which are a cut above the rest, but also back them with a comprehensive 24-month warranty. Only models produced after 2000 come with a standard three-year warranty.

However, the real bargains are found at independent traders and auctions, and anyone looking for a nearly new Focus should check out the excellent deals that are bandied about by car supersites, where you can now buy a new LX for less than ΂£10,000. Similarly, see how low a main dealer is prepared to go on ex-demonstrators or even brand new once you start to haggle.

A final word of caution: the Focus is one of the most popular personal imports, so make sure you check the history and specification on any potential buy. The value of any non-UK examples will be affected significantly.

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