FOCUS NEEDS SHARPENING

The sole engine is a new 1.5-litre threecylinder turbo, matched with an eight-speed automatic — a conventional torque converter job, not the troublesome dual-clutch design. There’s no manual option.

Ford’s infotainment is as good as it gets in this class, with an eight-inch touchscreen, navigation with traffic monitoring, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, digital radio, standalone voice control for all functions — which talks to you in a ’Strayan accent — wi-fi hotspot compatibility and automatic emergency services dialling, via your paired phone, if you have a prang. The Trend’s safety gear runs to six airbags, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keep assist/departure warning, adjustable speed limiter, 180-degree view reversing camera and automatic post impact braking.

Ford’s MyKey allows you to program functions such as disabling incoming calls, restricting top speed and audio volume — and disabling the audio altogether if occupants haven’t used the seat belts — into a specific key, which you can then give to the young, inexperienced driver in your family.

The ST Line, at $28,990 for the hatch and $30,990 for the wagon, is a sports-flavoured variant with body kit, rear spoiler and honeycomb grille, along with stiffer suspension, 10mm lower ride height, tyre pressure monitoring and 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it adds wireless phone charging, dual-zone aircon, keyless entry and start, metal insert pedals and a flat-bottom steering wheel. Top-spec and available as a hatch only, the Titanium is $34,490.