New Ford Focus vs used Mercedes A-Class: verdict

No family car is nicer to drive than the latest Ford Focus, but is a used Mercedes-Benz A-Class for the same money a better all-round buy?

New Ford Focus vs used Mercedes A-Class – alternatives

New rivals, used rivals

Our current Family Car of the Year is the Seat Leon, which is leagues ahead of the Focus when it comes to interior quality because it's every bit as classy inside as the more expensive Volkswagen Golf. What's more, it nearly matches the Focus for handling finesse.

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As for alternatives to a used A-Class, we'd seriously consider the Audi A3. It may not live up to its heady predecessor when it comes to interior quality, but it's comfortable, enjoyable to drive and available with a wide range of strong yet frugal engines.

New Ford Focus vs used Mercedes A-Class – which is best?

Our verdict

As we said at the beginning of this test, if you're looking for a family car that's fun to drive, keeps running costs low and offers loads of rear space, the Focus is an excellent choice.

However, it's the A-Class that sneaks the win here, because it manages to combine its superior desirability with plenty of more pragmatic strengths: namely, a classier interior, extra standard equipment, stronger resale values and excellent comfort and refinement.

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