Ford Focus Saloon 2005 - Present

The saloon Focus looks more at home than earlier models ever did with a boot. Although with a car as established and successful as the focus, aesthetics come second place to the question of how it compares to the standard, hatchback model. The good news for prospective buyers is that the saloon does just about everything the hatchback does, meaning it's excellent to drive, roomy and well screwed together. The engine range is narrower, but those that remain are willing and, in the case of the modern diesels, also economical.

As with the hatchback, you'll do well to find a better handling equivalent for your money. The hallmarks of the Focus are all present; the steering is responsive, the chassis is nimble and it feels confident through corners. The sophisticated suspension means the ride is excellent over all surfaces and passengers enjoy a comfortable trip sitting in the front and the back
The driving position gives loads of adjustment, especially on models with electronically adjustable seats. Variable assistance steering lightens the steering at parking speeds, but gives better feedback on the move, helping retain the Focus' extremely satisfying drive. The quality of the cabin is improved and shows Ford's desire to challenge the VW Golf in all areas. It isn't quite at that standard yet but the battle sees the buyer as the ultimate beneficiary. There are some signs of cost cutting if you look closely in the rear for instance, but this is understandable when you consider what you are getting for your money. On the whole it is a genuinely classy cabin environment and a definite improvement on its predecessor.

The Saloon gets a similar engine line up to the hatchback and estate. 1.4-litre petrol is dropped but that's no real loss as the engines that are left are some of the best that Ford has to offer. The petrol options are a 1.6 with 100 or 115bhp and a 2.0-litre with 130bhp. The outstanding range of diesels gives buyers a choice of economy and performance and in the case of the 2.0 TDCi delivers both. The entry unit is the 110bhp 1.6 TDCi, which returns 58mpg, followed by a 115bhp 1.8 TDCi that's capable of 53mpg and 121 mph. The 135bhp 2.0-litre TDCi will give 49mpg in everyday driving and 0-60 of 9.1 seconds. All models come with a five-speed gearbox except the 2.0 TDCi, which is a six-speeder. There is also the option of an automatic and a seven-speed CVT gearbox on all models.

This car is bigger than the old Focus saloon and has the feel of a mini-Mondeo on both the inside and out. There is ample room inside for five adults and good head and leg room both front and rear. The materials used are good quality throughout and is well insulated against engine and road noise.

Having a boot means that the load-lugging flexibility of the hatchback or estate is somewhat lost. Unfortunately the boot is also quite high off the ground, so can be quite difficult to access. But most families should find it big enough and with seats that split and fold, there are flexible options. There's also plenty of cabin storage.

The Focus Saloon offers something different to the Hatchback. It's not quite as good but virtually nothing is for the money, so if you want something slightly different but with the guarantees of the Focus it may well be on your shopping list.

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