Used Ford Focus review: 2011-2012

The all-new Focus launched by Ford in 2011 was part of a larger global program that aimed at maximising the return from the platform by using it under a number of cars around the world. Our cars initially came from Germany before production switched to Thailand.

There was a choice of sedan and hatch body styles, and four models, from the entry Ambiente to the range-topping Titanium. All were given a five-star tick of approval by ANCAP and came with all of the safety systems regarded as essential in a modern car, with six airbags, ABS and stability control.

The styling is thoroughly modern with sweeping lines and attractive proportions. Inside, the front seat occupants are comfortably accommodated in supportive seats, while there's sufficient room in the rear for a couple, of adults. The rear seat in the hatch is a 60/40 split-fold arrangement that makes it more versatile than the sedan.

The base model Ambiente came with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder, the others offered a choice of 2.0-litre petrol four or a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel. Sedans were only available with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, while hatch buyers had the option of a five-speed manual if they chose the petrol engine.

On the road the 1.6-litre delivers acceptable performance without being thrilling, while the 2.0-litre engines, both petrol and diesel, offer relaxed effortless motoring around town or out on the highway. While there is the option of a traditional manual gearbox on hatches, most cars would be expected to have the automatic transmission.

In this case the auto is a dual-clutch transmission not a conventional automatic as most drivers are familiar with. The dual-clutch is a blend of manual gearbox efficiency and the convenience of automatic shifting. European Fords have always been noted for their brilliant chassis dynamics and the Focus is no different. The handling is agile and the steering is responsive and precise, and the good thing is that the ride is still comfortable.

NOW

This model Focus is still quite new, so few will have built significant kays in the time they have been on the road, but they still need close inspection to ensure there are no underlying issues that might cause concern further down the track. Generally the Focus is well built and reliable, and secondhand car buyers can approach them with good confidence that they will deliver good service long term.

The only thing that needs some caution is the dual-clutch automatic. We've had one or two reports of malfunctioning transmissions at Carsguide; not enough to cause alarm, but certainly enough to be alert to when road testing a car prior to purchase. It's a good idea to put your prospective purchase through as many different driving situations as possible in the hope of finding potential problems.

Things to watch out for are shuddering on take-off, confused shifting, slumping or stumbling when changing gears. Servicing is crucial to a long and trouble free life for any car, so it's important to make sure the car you are considering to buy has been serviced as per Ford's recommendations.

SMITHY SAYS

Good looking, competent, comfortable and reliable, the Focus ticks most boxes.

Ford Focus 2011-2012
Price new: $24,290 to $33,690
Engine: 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder, 92 kW/159 Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 125 kW/202 Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 120 kW/340 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed auto, 5-speed manual, FWD
Economy: 6.2 L/100 km (1.6), 6.6 L/100 km (2.0), 5.5 L/100 km (2.0TD)
Body: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatch
Variants: Ambiente, Trend, Titanium, Sport
Safety: 5-star ANCAP

COMING UP

Do you own a VW Passat? If so tell us what you think of it by sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.