There’s not much to titillate in this cabin: it’s solidly executed, but the stylistic flourishes of the old Focus’s fascia have been traded for sober detailing. Trim and build quality is certainly better than before but not up to VW’s best standards.
At first the driving position seems too high, but get the wheel (adjustable for rake and reach) in the correct spot and the seat will fit perfectly. The front seats deserve a special mention here. They may look completely drab, but for comfort and lateral support they are far better than anything else in the class. Cabin space is excellent: this is a genuine four-adult seater – five over shorter journeys. The rear squab is quite short, but overall these seats are noticeably more comfortable than those in the Focus’s key competitors.
Front and side airbags and curtain ’bags protect all occupants and seatbelt pre-tensioners trigger in the event of a severe collision. Factor in the Focus’s superb roadholding, the very stiff bodyshell and standard anti-lock and electronic stability control and it’s difficult to see what more Ford could offer in terms of active or passive safety.
Naturally, standard equipment varies according to trim level. This Zetec model isn’t the top of the range, but still has electric windows and air-con. However, leather trim is a steep £1600 and the £400 Ford wants for the Sony six-disc changer seems strong.
Even after Ford’s obligatory ‘deal’ on this £13,345 car, there will be a significant hit come trade-in time, especially for this petrol-engined model. The TDCi will certainly hold its value better. What Car? predicts the Ti-VCT will retain 49 per cent of its price over three years, and we’d agree with that.
Over 40 flat-out miles at the track we managed just 16.8mpg, but our overall average was still an impressive 33.8mpg. It achieved 40.1mpg on the economy route, meaning owners can expect to average mid-30s in everyday driving, giving a realistic 400-mile range.
