While there may be some changes to how it looks, again, there is no mistaking that it is a Focus. It’s shorter, narrower and the front grille and lights have been reshaped. Inside the cabin is really well put together, roomy and comfortable. All the dials and instruments are sensibly placed and easy to use. On the road, it is still the one the others have to beat when it comes to handling and ride, helped a lot by electronic, rather than hydraulic, power steering. It feels so well planted and is one of the few family cars that encourage you to drive on. The engines include the 1.6 Eco Boost Zetec S, which develops 180bhp. It has a top speed of 139mph and can complete the benchmark 0-60 in 7.5 seconds. The fuel economy is also impressive, returning 47 miles to the gallon. And there are excellent diesels available too.

•  Some complaints of the start/stop technology malfunctioning in the 1.6 Eco Boost model

•  Affordable and inexpensive to run
•  It handles extremely well and the ride is really smooth
•  Sporty exterior and top quality interior
•  The cabin is spacious enough for five
•  Efficient and economic engines available

•  Some interior trims in base models feel inexpensive