Ford Focus hatchback (2011-2014) - Practicality & boot space

Interior space & storage

The biggest disappointment with the Ford Focus is that while it’s larger outside than the car it replaced, interior space has taken a hit. While the glovebox is a reasonable size, the central armrest cubby that’s offered on Zetec models and above is on the small side. You do get two cup-holders and a 12v socket, however the door bins are on the small side.

In the back, there are seatback pockets and a reasonable amount of space for back-seat passengers, but small windows mean it feels a little claustrophobic and the middle seat is a squeeze for adults.

Boot space

Luggage room is a bit of a weak point in the Focus, too. A seats-up capacity of 316 litres is only 17 litres more than you’ll get in the smaller Ford Fiesta, and the Focus trails its main rivals, the VW Golf and Vauxhall Astra, by 64 and 54 litres respectively.

Fold the seats and this rises to 1,101 litres, but this is still some 100 litres behind the class front-runners. There are some plus points, though: the boot floor is flat and doesn’t have any wheelarch intrusion, the 60:40 split back seats fold easily and there’s a completely flat load floor with them down, while the tailgate has a wide opening. But the reality is that if you want a practical Focus, the estate model – or even the Focus-based C-MAX and Grand C-MAX MPVs – are better bets.

Towing

If you want to tow, the higher-powered 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine is the one to go for, as it has a towing capacity of 1,500kg. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol boasts a towing capacity of 1,200kg in 123bhp form, although it’s sure to feel strained pulling that much. Note that you can’t tow with the Focus ST hot hatchback – its exhaust sits under the middle of the bumper, so you can’t fit a tow bar.