Ford Focus 2005 review

But, hey presto, with the advent of the new Focus, Ford has a car the same size as Mondeo at a much better price.

Though Focus sells in the small car segment against the likes of Astra, Corolla and blood brother Mazda3, it's grown to the same size as Mondeo.

Sourced this time around from Ford's South African plant and not Germany, the latest model gains a new 2.0-litre Duratec engine only and many other improvements.

But it still has an underwhelming four speed automatic transmission that nobbles performance and can annoy the driver with inept operation. A sequential change mode is provided.

Luckily the five speed manual is a good one offering slick changing and accurate gearing.

Prices start at a competitive $20,990 for the CL five door manual hatch and four door sedan. Prices rise sharply to $24,990 for the LX and up further to the sporty Zetec and luxury Ghia.

The previous top selling 1.8-litre base model is no longer available.

The new DOHC, 16 valve, 2.0-litre engine is from Ford's Duratec family and offers more power and torque (107kW/185Nm), lower emissions and better fuel economy.

It's a lightweight unit designed for longevity and low maintenance as much as for performance and economy. Petrol requirement is 91 octane with gains from using 95.

Safety is better than ever thanks to the Ford/ Volvo link.

Unmistakably Focus the new body has a more angular, technical look and is bigger with more presence on the road.

Interior comfort gains include extra head, leg and shoulder room and a larger boot.

Focus earned a reputation for its tidy dynamics and the new one doesn't disappoint. Suspension upgrades see a new front subframe and numerous other changes. Steering is now electro/hydraulic offering finer control and more feel. The turning circle is tight.

Ford has been able to put more equipment into Focus across the range thanks in part to lower production costs out of South Africa.

The base model scores aircon, front power windows, trip computer, remote central locking and other goodies. "Smooth" and "safety" packs are available to lift the CL to near LX level at a saving of two grand. Engineers tailored the new Focus to Aussie conditions through testing here and also sending staff to Germany in the design stages. It's a good thing to drive with supple, controlled suspension and a pleasing feel. The Zetec model is a step up in terms of sharpness and is more rewarding and competent in the handling department.

Interior styling is not as funky as the previous model but is still good to look at and easy to use. The seats lack lateral support.

It's quieter due to numerous changes including the smoother engine through to thicker side glass.

Wind noise is lower and the chassis is much stronger due to simple but effective changes.

Focus is running sixth in the small car class and Ford aims to jump a few rungs up with this new model.

Focus has strong buyer allegiance and this new model with all its improvements, extra features and larger size should appeal to a wider audience.