Best New Ford Focus Deals and Performance
Every petrol engine is a 1.6-litre. Entry-level cars come with a basic 84bhp unit – a great choice for New or Young Drivers. There are other versions with 103 and 123bhp, but the 148bhp unit is a fine blend of performance and economy. The 148bhp version is part of Ford’s new Ecoboost range of engines. It is an exceptional performer offering pace beyond what is usually expected from a 1.6. in today’s cars, according to most dealers.
The cheapest diesel models also have 1.6-litre engines, with the 113bhp version giving a great blend of bang for buck. Further up the range, the two 2.0-litre-engined models also perform to an excellent standard.
Diesel choices are a bit more varied, with 94 and 113bhp 1.6-litre engines and 2-litre units developing 138 and 160bhp. Zero to 62mph figures are 12.5, 10.9, 8.9 and 
8.6 seconds respectively. Performance fans are most likely to opt for the Zetec-S 178bhp 1.6-litre Ecoboost petrol, which hits 62mph in 7.9 seconds, Until the Focus ST hot hatch arrives in 2012. The Zetec-S 178bhp 1.6-litre Ecoboost petrol is a quiet and silky smooth engine at lower revs, but comes alive in the mid-range, emitting plenty of punch. With its enhanced suspension and turn of speed, this Zetec-S is a well-balanced car which can cover ground astonishingly quick.
Ride & Handling
Ford has a real talent for producing cars that have style and handle very nicely and the Ford Focus continues this trend. Strong grip along with solid body control makes it feel superbly agile, while the super-accurate steering weights up more and more the faster you go. The ride is nothing short of excellent. Tie this with the superb interior and you have a car that is as classy as it is smooth.
Refinement
The fine steering, strong advanced brakes and neat, accurate gear lever fuse together to make the Focus full of life. Nevertheless, when you just want to sit back and savor the journey, the excellent closing off from road and wind noise means it is also a very accomplished high-mileage touring car.
