Ford Focus hatchback (2011-2014) - Interior & comfort

All models are comfortable, with well padded seats and a decent range of steering wheel and seat adjustment for the driver. Higher-spec cars get leather trim and heated seats, although these models are expensive and don’t add much in the way of extra comfort.

All-round visibility is good, with thin pillars contributing to a good view of the road ahead, although a relatively small back window and thicker rear pillars mean the view out the back could be better.

Dashboard

Silver trim lifts what would otherwise be a relentlessly grey dashboard, and the plastics used on top of the dash and around the major controls are soft and feel good. But the plastic lower down in the footwells and on the doors feels harder and lower quality.

All models except the entry-level Studio version get a new eight-inch touchscreen that helps clean up the mess of buttons in the centre console that blighted the pre-facelift Focus. It’s a pretty easy-to-use system, and when fitted with SYNC 2, it’ll even respond to voice commands. For example, saying "I’m hungry" will bring up a list of restaurants nearby. The trip-computer display is navigated using the multifunction steering wheel on higher-spec models. The sculpted buttons used on the wheel are neatly styled and easy to use, and were further improved by the facelift.

Equipment & Options

The standard Ford Focus is available in Studio and Edge trim levels, which have a digital radio, air-conditioning, a Bluetooth phone connection, electric windows and central locking as standard. The mid-range Zetec models include 16-inch alloys, a Quickclear windscreen and heated door mirrors, while the top-of-the-range Titanium and Titanium X trims add automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, keyless go, cruise control and hill-start assist.