Ford Focus hatchback - 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. Its dashboard looks quite similar to that of the latest Fiesta and the materials used are, by and large, pleasant to touch and to look at.

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.

Ford Focus hatchback dashboard

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

Equipment

Seven Focus trim levels are offered and none of them are short on everyday essentials. Even the entry-level Zetec trim has 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, Ford’s SYNC 3 system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity. It also boasts cruise control, auto headlights, autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. The previous base model, Style, is no longer offered.

The Focus Titanium adds sat nav and heated front seats, plus dual-zone climate control, all-round parking sensors, auto wipers and keyless entry and go. Part-leather seats, privacy glass and 17-inch alloy wheels are added if you step up to the Titanium X.

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Besides the Ford Focus ST, the sportiest Focus is the ST-Line. It wears an unmistakable bodykit with distinctive grille, front and rear spoilers and twin exhaust pipes, set off by 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, dark headlining and alloy pedals and gearknob set the mood, while the ST-Line X adds 18-inch alloys and the luxury kit enjoyed by Titanium X drivers.

Topping the range, the Focus Vignale has a look of its own, inside and out. All lights are LED and full leather upholstery is fitted, with a heated steering wheel, rear-view camera and head-up display all standard. There's also a Bang & Olufsen Play stereo with 10 speakers – including a boot-mounted subwoofer – and 675 watts of amplification to call upon.

Options

The powerful stereo mentioned above can be added to the Titanium, Titanium X or ST-Line X as a £350 option. On lesser models, you can add some of the kit from more expensive versions for additional cost, while FordPass Connect is optional if you’d like online services.