Ford Focus Estate - Interior & comfort

In years gone by, the Focus’ functional but uninspiring interior has been one area where the Volkswagen Golf Estate has been clearly superior. But the Focus has taken a big step forwards and pulled itself closer to the VW than ever before, although the latest VW and SEAT models have advanced even further. Looking rather like a grown-up Ford Fiesta, the Focus has a similarly uncluttered feel and plenty of attractive materials.

These vary according to trim level, with contemporary metallic or carbon-effect highlights to draw the eye. Like most models in the class, there are still harder plastics to be found lower down and out of sight, but these should at least prove hardwearing.

Ford Focus Estate dashboard

As in the Fiesta, most buttons have been eradicated from the dashboard, replaced by a prominent colour touchscreen. An update in late 2021 means that even the entry-level Trend gets an eight-inch screen, whereas all other models receive an expansive 13.2-inch display.

No matter which Focus Estate model you choose, all run Ford’s latest SYNC 4 software. This is incredibly responsive to your inputs and is just as easy to use as a smartphone. Speaking of smartphones, if you’d rather use software that resembles that of your own device, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come as standard.

Unfortunately, in the pursuit of minimalism, Ford has fallen into the industry-wide trap of integrating the climate controls into the main touchscreen. While these do have fixed shortcuts at the bottom of the display for easy access, they can still be difficult to operate on the move compared to an old-fashioned physical dial or switch.

Equipment

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Just like the Ford Focus hatchback, there are plenty of trim levels to help the Focus Estate appeal to a broad range of customers. After a reshuffle in 2021, the range now kicks off with the Trend model. This comes as standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, the aforementioned eight-inch touchscreen, cruise control and lane-keep assist.

Step up to the Titanium trim and you’ll benefit from LED tail lights, chrome exterior detailing, power folding mirrors, keyless entry and start, plus – most importantly – the larger 13.2-inch infotainment system. Buyers can add the luxurious Vignale pack for around £2,000 which boasts larger 17-inch alloys, a 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen stereo, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, tinted windows and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

The ST-Line model is perhaps the most visually-appealing of the range thanks to its sportier bodykit, 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and dual-tipped exhaust. On the inside, ST-Line cars get figure-hugging sport seats, metal pedals and a model-specific gear knob. As with the Titanium model, ST-Line cars can also be specced in Vignale guise; here, it adds kerb-clipping 18-inch alloys alongside the aforementioned host of interior upgrades.

Finally, Focus Active and Active Vignale match the ST-Line in terms of kit, but swap the sporty looks for a more rugged, pseudo-SUV appearance. 

Options

The Ford Focus is available with a variety of different options and option packs. Of particular note is the head-up display which costs £400 on Vignale models as well as the Parking Package which includes a reversing camera, door edge protectors and park assist. This will set you back around £500, but is well worth it as no version of the Ford Focus comes as standard with a reversing camera.

Of course, availability of all options and equipment  is subject to change given the ongoing supply issues worldwide. Be sure to check with your dealer for current availability.