Bold new look

FACTFILE

Unlike with some model updates, where it’s impossible to tell what’s been changed, with Ford’s revamped Focus Estate there’s no mistaking old for new.

The first thing that greets you is Ford’s new corporate nose – think Aston Martin for the people.

But there’s more to the Focus than just some added bling, as the car now packs some impressive safety and convenience kit, tweaked ride and handling characteristics plus engines that are more than worthy of Ford’s hype.

Looks and image

Whatever your view, the bold new snout is a genuine headturner and does much to boost the car’s premium look and feel. And it’s this angle that Ford is most keen to develop, as the firm aspires to move its models upmarket. As the wagon of the family you can expect the Focus Estate to swallow pretty much anything The car’s facelift status has resulted in a raft of detailed tweaks to enhance the experience for keen drivers and boost refinement for everyone else in the cabin. From suspension and steering changes to soundproofing tweaks, Ford has taken a fine tooth comb to the Focus in a bid to bring it closer to premium class cars costing Whichever variant you choose, Ford has upped the ante with more standard kit, improved economy and emissions plus an impressive choice of hi-tech extras covering safety and convenience. Plus, with the car’s cabin ambience having been raised, the added premium ‘feel’ is immediately obvious and does much to convince occupants they are in a higher class of car. If the current crop of compact SUVs and people carriers leaves you cold or you need a conventional load-lugger, the Focus Estate is hard to ignore. It can’t match the latter for overall cabin versatility, but as compromises go, the Focus wagon is a competent, affordable and well-equipped alternative.

ONE WORD This car summed up in just a single word: