Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: practicality
These Ford hatchbacks both sell in huge number, but which makes more sense: the cheaper Fiesta or the bigger Focus?...
Space and practicality
Front space, rear space, seating flexibility, boot
Up front, the difference in space isn’t as marked as you might expect. Despite its steeply sloping windscreen and slightly raised driving position, the Fiesta actually has plenty of head room, while those with long legs will be pleased to find that you can slide the front seats pretty far back. And although the Fiesta is far narrower than the Focus, there’s easily enough elbow space for two broad adults to sit comfortably side by side.
However, the difference is more marked in the back, because even by its own class standards, rear seat space isn’t the Fiesta’s strongest suit. Tall passengers will probably find their legs brushing the back of the seat in front, and while head room is reasonable, a tiny middle seat means fitting three across the bench is a real squeeze.
The Focus, by comparison, is cavernous. It has more leg room than most other family cars, much less the Fiesta, and carrying three in the back is more comfortable, thanks to a broader middle seat.
Meanwhile, the Focus’s boot, despite being smaller than those of many of its closest class rivals, is far more accommodating than the Fiesta’s. There’s a little lip to negotiate at the entrance, but its square shape will easily hold a pushchair or up to six carry-on suitcases below the parcel shelf, compared with five in the Fiesta. Both cars have 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks, although it’s a shame that these don’t lie completely flat when dropped.
Ford Fiesta
Boot 270-920 litres Suitcases 5
Ford Focus
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