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Ford Focus [MK3] [C346] (2011 - 2014)

The independent definitive Ford Focus (2011-2014) video review

This is a sample, showing 30 seconds of each section.

    FOCUS ON EXCELLENCE (some text hidden) SECTIONED_new_fordfocus_2011

    By Andy Enright

    Introductionword count: 169

    The problem with setting a benchmark is that it's a tough trick to repeat. Jaguar could never quite reach the heights it achieved with the E-Type, Audi had the same problem trying to reprise the Quattro and Peugeot must have resigned itself to the fact that every hot hatch it ever built would be judged to be some way short of its 205 GTi. Ford's unassailable high is probably the first generation Focus. Yes, it was a genuinely great car, but its achievements were helped in many ways by the sheer ineptitude of stiffs like the Vauxhall Astra and the Nissan Almera that it was tasked to knock over. As its rivals closed on it, each successive generation of Focuses has become more talented yet, rather cruelly, not as highly regarded. The third generation car is a case in point. It's a genuinely talented all-rounder but no longer is it the default pick in its class. It's nevertheless a quite brilliant used choice. Read on to find out why.

    Modelsword count: 21

    5dr hatchback, 5 door estate (1.0, 1.6, 2.0 petrol, 1.6, 2.0 diesel [Studio, Edge, Zetec, Zetec-S, ECOnetic, Titanium, Titanium X, ST])

    Historyword count: 257

    The Focus was originally launched way back in 1998, revolutionising the way the family hatches drove, making itself a fixture at the top of the UK sales charts in the process. The second generation version arrived in 2004, upping the quality, offering more space and toning down the wacky interior styling that had dated quite badly. After seeing Ford through the credit crunch, this model made way for version three, which hit dealers in March of 2011. Upon launch, the range comprised five door hatches and estates. The engine line-up opened with the 105SP 1.6 Ti-VCT petrol engine, with a punchier 125PS version also offered. The 150PS 1.6-litre EcoBoost powerplant was the quickest petrol engine you could initially get. Diesel units comprised the 95 and 115PS versions of the 1.6-litre TDCi and 140 or 163PS versions of the 2.0-litre TDCi lump. The latter was the only model to be offered with the option of the 2.0-litre PowerShift twin clutch transmission. The range quickly filled out with a clever three cylinder 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol variant, then with the hot hatch 250PS 2.0-litre ST model which arrived in March 2012, quickly followed by an estate version. A Zetec S trim level arrived at the end of 2012 and by the start of 2014, Ford announced one million sales of the third generation Focus in Europe alone. The Focus ST was Europe's best-selling hot hatch and the Focus badge had become the biggest selling nameplate around the world. The updated facelift version of this car was announced in summer 2014.

    What You Getword count: 234

    All MK3 Focus models get a front end that looks a good deal more aggressive than its rather low-key MK2 predecessor, with gaping triangular front air intakes that look as if they should grace an RS model. Closer inspection reveals them to be mere plastic blanking plates but between them is what Ford dubs its dynamic shutter grille which can close at speed to improve aerodynamics. The rear lights are an intricate design that integrate with the fuel filler cap on the right side of the car. These also contrast with the less extrovert rear window treatment. The estate version is extremely well proportioned, with a mini-Mondeo silhouette. The interior is a massive step forward in terms of materials quality and fit and finish from its already solid predecessor. Some commentators have claimed that the Focus has targeted the Volkswagen Golf, but the interior is a far more extrovert design than you'll find in any Wolfsburg vehicle. The centre console looks busy but it's fairly easy to figure everything out quickly and the Sony stereo is a very classy touch. The estate is well worth hunting down. The load bay measures 476-litres to the parcel shelf and if you drop the rear seats you get up to 1502-litres of available space. Unlike in the hatchback version, there's no full-size spare wheel option available, Ford offering only a slim space saver spare for estate buyers.

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    Category: Compact Family Cars

    Performance
    80%
    Handling
    90%
    Comfort
    80%
    Space
    80%
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