Ford Focus Estate review - Interior, design and technology

While the previous generation Focus lacked a bit of pizazz on the style front, Ford’s designers upped their game with the new one to make it more individual and eye-catching. The effect is not overly-dramatic or extrovert, and the overall effect is relatively conservative. However, especially at the front where a handsome new grille and sculpted bonnet have been styled, the changes mean the Focus has a stronger presence on the road than ever.

The rear of the car is more carefully integrated too, with a rising beltline and tapering window glass above the rear haunches giving the car a sporty demeanour. That’s emphasised on ST-Line models with a black egg-crate style grille, while the luxurious Vignale gets LED headlights and rear lamps for a more premium feel.

Inside, the Focus Estate shares the hatchback’s clean and uncluttered dash, as well as a ‘floating’ tablet style touchscreen. The quality feel of the interior fit and finish is now as good as you’ll find anywhere, with soft-touch materials and with attractive metallic finishes making the cabin a very welcoming place to be. 

Entry-level Zetec models feature a good level of standard equipment, including a 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, air conditioning, cruise control with a speed limiter, a heated front screen and LED daytime running lights. Active models build on Zetec specification, with bigger alloy wheels, keyless go and selectable drive modes.

Top-of-the-range ST cars include 19-inch wheels, a unique bodystyling kit with rear spoiler, alloy finish pedals, LED headlights and taillights and ST sports suspension.

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Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

Titanium models build on the base Zetec trim to include Ford's excellent SYNC 3 infotainment system, along with sat nav and a 4.2-inch TFT coloured display. It also adds heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors and rain-sensing wipers.

The expensive Vignale trim features an upgraded B&O audio system with ten speakers, along with a head-up display, a rear wide-view camera and Active Park Assist.