Ford Focus Estate review

Compared with equivalent editions in the Skoda Octavia Estate range, mid-spec Focus Zetec and ST-Line trim levels are relatively pricey – not far off the better-equipped SE version of the Volkswagen Golf Estate, in fact. This means the Focus Estate isn’t as cheap as you might think.

However, the story is different when you compare three-year, 10,000-mile-per-year PCP finance deals – the gap between Focus and Octavia narrows to just a few pounds per month. The Kia Ceed Sportswagon, meanwhile, undercuts both. Predicted resale values for the Focus are respectable, roughly matching those of the Golf and Octavia.

If you fancy something that looks a little sporty, the next rung on the ladder – ST Line – is also worth considering. It has all of the Zetec’s features plus keyless start, aluminium pedals, sports seats, 17in alloy wheels and more aggressive exterior looks. Meanwhile, Active models will appeal to fans of SUV-inspired styling.

Our pick, though, is Titanium, which is still reasonably priced when its long list of standard equipment is taken into account. It packs power-folding door mirrors, keyless entry, front and rear parking sensors, automatic wipers, heated front seats and dual-zone climate control. We’d suggest the better equipped ‘X’ versions of various trims are too expensive, as is the top-rung Vignale.

According to our most recent survey, Ford’s reliability record is only average. The data – compiled from information supplied by you in the 2018 What Car? Reliability Survey  – placed the brand 18th out of the 31 scrutinised, although this current version of the Focus was too new to feature.