Ford Focus 2011 review

Ford's new Focus has plenty of what they call the "wow factor" not only in the way it looks but also how it feels to drive and the equipment it has.

We've only driven one so far - the top of the range diesel auto hatch called Titanium. It's an absolute cracker although expensive for a Focus.

Value

Put a BMW badge on it and you'd think it was the bargain of the year. Priced at $36,090, the Titanium diesel bristles with luxury, safety and high-tech equipment. 

This is the one with Active Park Assist which helps (inept) drivers parallel park the car. It has heated seats, 18-inch alloys, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming. There's even voice control of a number of regularly used functions among the extensive kit inventory.

Safety

Focus Titanium scores a five star crash rating with features like six air bags, stability control, adaptive cruise control and an adjustable speed limiter. Torque vectoring that meters power to each wheel individiually based on grip is on all models. The car's sharp dynamics is a safety feature in itself.

Under the bonnet

All engines in the new LW Focus range are "next generation" including the twin cam, high pressure injection, 2.0-litre turbodiesel we drove. It's good for 120kW/340Nm and can consume as little as  5.5-litres/100km.

The transmission is Ford's Powershift six-speed dual-clutch "manumatic" that functions like a quick change auto but is an automated manual. The turbo is a variable geometry unit and the engine passes Euro 4 emission regs.

Inside

Stunning to look at in a car the right side of $50K. Striking modern angular design with beautifully laid out controls, damped dials. Two info' screens and an attractive instrument pod with plenty of soft feel surfaces in three tones/textures. Even the seats are good - electrically operated drivers seat and heated fronts.

Partial leather seems a good compromise to full leather which can be too hot or slippery. The cabin is roomy and can take five at a pinch with a decent size, expandable load space and a full size (steel spare.)

The drive

Feels like a thoroughbred European car through the wheel which gives sharp responses. Suspension is sporty but not too firm and easily copes with our rough sealed roads - with 18-inch low profile tyres. Performance from the smooth and quiet diesel is strong and in keeping with the sporty nature of the car. Pity diesels don't have a pleasing exhaust note.

The driver assist features are greatly appreciated - stuff like auto wipers and headlights, capless refuelling, start button with remote key, hill launch and plenty more. We like the looks of it too - from all angles and it feels solid and well made (in Thailand).