Ford Focus review - Interior & comfort

​Interior design hasn't always been a Ford Focus strong point – previous versions have either been busy-looking (the first and third generations) or bland (the second generation). The latest version manages to tread a fine line between style and substance although it has been on sale since 2019 and some rivals do feel more modern. The materials used are, by and large, pleasant to touch and to look at with higher spec models getting upgrades to raise the tone inside.

Depending on the trim level, a combination of smart metallic, wood-grain or carbon-effect and soft-touch plastics are used where eyes and fingertips are most likely to roam, with harder, more durable materials used in out-of-the-way locations. The Focus isn't plush enough to knock the Volkswagen Golf from the interior quality top-spot, but it's easily the equal of the SEAT Leon.

Infotainment and navigation

Taking pride of place on the Focus' dashboard is a central display screen – full colour and 13.2-inches in size on all the models with the SYNC 4 infotainment. It recognises smartphone-style 'pinch and swipe' gestures and the screen is particularly responsive, with crisp, clear and attractive graphics. The latest Focus was also the first European Ford to offer a head-up display to present driving information in your line of sight.

Equipment

The Focus is well equipped even as standard with the range now opening with the plush Titanium models. There is an ‘X badged version of every trim level adding an attractive package of extras for just over £2,000 and a ‘Style’ badged version of every trim level with a downgraded infotainment system at a saving of around £500. We would recommend paying extra for a car with the excellent SYNC 4 infotainment system which really adds to the usability of the Focus with its large, clear screen.

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Beyond the Titanium models, the range splits with the sporty ST-Line variants and the Active models that bring a mild SUV flavour to proceedings. The ST-Line cars get a bodykit, lowered suspension and a rear spoiler. The Active cars have raised suspension, roof rails and protective body cladding around the sills and wheel arches.

Options

A head-up display is available on some models, although it costs £450. You can also add blind spot monitoring to any car in the range for £450, plus there are ‘Driver’ and ‘Parking’ option packs that add things such as adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition and a rear-view camera. They seem good value for around £600.