Skip advert
Advertisement

Automatic braking

Of all the technology our readers tested, none impressed more than Ford’s automatic braking.

Of all the technology our readers tested, none impressed more than Ford’s automatic braking. Active City Stop is the same collision-avoidance function that’s slowly filtering down to cheaper cars: it’s a £225 option on the new VW up!

On the Ford, it forms part of the £1,050 Driver Assistance Pack (it’s £850 on Titanium models). Active City Stop uses a forward-facing camera mounted on the windscreen to scan the road ahead for cars or obstacles the Focus is closing in on. If it senses an imminent collision, it activates the brakes automatically at speeds of up to 20mph.

Advertisement - Article continues below

When our readers tried it, each was astonished as the Focus came to a halt inches from a cardboard box we had placed in its path. “I didn’t think the car was going to stop, but it did,” said Nathan. “This will prevent alot of accidents, no question. I’d pay up to a grand for it.”

Music to Ford’s ears – and it kept coming. Peter said: “That’s amazing. I’m really impressed. For my next car I’m definitely going to spec that.” He thought it would help cut rear-end accidents where he lives, adding: “In Milton Keynes we’ve got a lot of roundabouts, so this is something I’d definitely want.”

Mike spotted a benefit in cutting car insurance bills, telling us: “I’ve heard whiplash injuries add £90 to every premium. Everyone would benefit from this.” He said he’d pay £400-£500 for it on his next car.

When Pete tried the tech, he was the only one to nudge the box (albeit very slightly), and was sceptical. “I probably wouldn’t pay for it,” he explained. “But I’d like everyone else behind me to have it!”

Verdict: take it

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,405Avg. savings £2,749 off RRP*Used from £12,220
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,515Avg. savings £3,834 off RRP*Used from £10,200
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £1,676 off RRP*
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £25,235Avg. savings £1,824 off RRP*Used from £24,000
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: new Ford Capri looks a lot less controversial at this price
Ford Capri - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: new Ford Capri looks a lot less controversial at this price

Rebooted Seventies classic is now an electric SUV for a low monthly outlay. It’s our Deal of the Day for 5 February
News
5 Feb 2025
Car Deal of the Day: sleek ‘n’ sporty Mazda 3 hatch at just £173 a month
Mazda 3 front corner tracking

Car Deal of the Day: sleek ‘n’ sporty Mazda 3 hatch at just £173 a month

Mazda’s high-quality family hatch might cost less than you expect with low initial payment and monthly fee
News
2 Feb 2025
Electric company car megatest: Tesla, BMW, Polestar, Hyundai and BYD head-to-head
Electric company car megatest - header

Electric company car megatest: Tesla, BMW, Polestar, Hyundai and BYD head-to-head

Drivers are spoiled for choice in the flourishing EV company car market, but which of our six rivals does the business?
Car group tests
3 Feb 2025