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For This model’s three-cylinder Ecoboost engine performs well and is remarkably refined, plus it brings small company car tax bills. Zetec S trim gets you a sporty looking bodykit and stiffer suspension.

Against Zetec S trim pushes the price into the realm of more efficient diesel small family cars. The Focus isn’t as practical as many small family cars, either. The engine falls well short of its official economy figure in real-world driving

Ford Focus Hatchback

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

If you’re after a petrol Focus, the Ford Focus 1.0 125 Ecoboost Zetec S has the engine to go for. However, we’d recommend sticking with Zetec trim to keep the price reasonable.

What Car? readers say

3.714286


Key facts

0–60mph
11.3 secs
Top speed
120 mph
Average mpg
56.5
Tank range
684 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole Ford Focus Hatchback range

Cheaper

More expensive

Read in full

The full Ford Focus review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

There isn't a bad engine among the ones in the Ford Focus range that we've tried, but we reckon the best is the 113bhp 1.6 diesel. It’s strong enough and impressively smooth, although it’s not as efficient as some rivals in real-world driving.

All versions come with air-conditioning, electric front windows and a USB connection. Popular Zetec trim adds alloys, Bluetooth, a digital radio and a heated windscreen. We’d understand if you wanted to upgrade to Titanium trim, because this brings more convenience equipment and a posher-looking dashboard that gives the cabin a real lift, although it’s not cheap.

However you specify your Focus, make sure you get a big discount. Dealers should be prepared to knock off thousands of pounds, especially on more expensive versions. The Focus doesn’t have particularly strong resale values, so a discount will help partially offset the steep depreciation.

Reader test team says:

Ford Focus Hatchback 1.6 TDCi 115 Zetec S 5dr

I took delivery of this car in April 2012, after negotiating a discount of roughly 18% plus options worth over £2500 all in the price was just over…

duncan sims

4 out of 5 stars

Ford Focus Hatchback 1.0T 125 Ecoboost Zetec 5dr

I test drove the above car yesterday. I liked it so much. I bought the 1.0 Ecoboost Titanium X. Pick it up at the end of this month. I will only…

Kevin Scott

5 out of 5 stars

Ford Focus Hatchback Focus 5dr

I wrote a review for this car when I first took delivery in July 2011, and overall I'd still say its an ok car. However, in terms of the owning…

John Bevan

3 out of 5 stars

Ford Focus Hatchback 1.6 TDCi 115 Zetec 5dr

We used to own this model, but are delighted to have sold it on. After only a few miles, the after depressing the clutch, the pedal refused to rise…

John Davies

1 out of 5 stars
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