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 the base Trend model, with all other trim levels getting a bigger, 13.2-inch version. 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

The Focus is well equipped even as standard. The entry-level Trend trim has 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, LED headlights, air-conditioning, Ford’s SYNC 3 system with an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity. It also boasts cruise control, auto headlights, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection and lane-keeping assistance.

The Focus Titanium adds LED tail lights, electrically folding mirrors, a new front grille with chrome trim, dual-zone climate control and keyless entry and start. It also gets a technology boost, with a larger 13.2-inch infotainment screen running Ford’s SYNC 4 setup. Upgrade to the Titanium Vignale trim and additional equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a B&O premium stereo system with 10 speakers, tinted windows, heated front seats and steering wheel and a 12.3-inch digital dial cluster.

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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 Vignale adds 18-inch alloys and the luxury kit enjoyed by Titanium Vignale drivers.

The Focus Active and Active Vignale models are also really well equipped and match their equivalent trims for kit,  but focus on rugged looks and a higher ride height. They’re more crossover-like than the other trims but still drive very much like the other Focus models.

Options

A head-up display is available on the Vignale models, although it costs £400. You can also add blind spot monitoring to any car in the range for £400, plus there are ‘Driver’ and ‘Parking’ option packs that add things such as adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition and a rear-view camera.