2011 Ford Focus Sedan Review

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2011 Ford Focus Sedan at a glance

The 2011 Ford Focus Sedan makes a compelling case with its class-leading driving dynamics and accomplished ride and refinement. Well-built, roomy and well-priced, the 2011 Ford Focus Sedan really should be selling better than it is.

2011 Ford Focus Sedan quick specs

Body Style Sedan
Class Mid-size Family
Assembled -
Engine Range -
Fuel Options -
Seating Capacity 5

2011 Ford Focus Sedan ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)

Styling
Handling
Comfort
Quality + Reliability
Performance
Roominess
Running Costs
Value for Money
Equipment
Environment

Styling

The 2011 Ford Focus may not be the finest-looking mid-size sedan around, but it looks neat and inoffensive, if not likeable. Ford gave the Focus Sedan a mid-term facelift in 2008 to sharpen up its looks. In line with Ford's Kinetic Design language, as seen on the Ford Mondeo and Ford S-MAX, the key changes include a trapezoidal grille, swept back headlamps, restyled tail lamps, and bolder wheel arches.

Handling

The 2011 Ford Focus Sedan handles in a manner not unlike the Volkswagen Golf, combining fine body control and loads of grip with a steering that is ultra-accurate and communicative. The superb driving dynamics mean the Ford Focus Sedan is fun to drive down that winding stretch of road; no other mid-size sedans in Malaysia handle anywhere as well.

Comfort

Capable in minimising body movements, the suspension is also well-tuned to insulate occupants from poor road surfaces. Cabin refinement is accomplished, with little engine, wind or road noise at cruising speeds. The dashboard boasts clear-to-see dials and displays, and clearly labelled controls which are simple to use. The comfortable driving position comes with seat-height and two-way steering adjustments, which should make life easy for most people.

Quality + Reliability

The cabin represents a big step forward from the previous-generation Focus. The well-finished and solidly put together cabin exudes a quality feel. Ford has however chosen hard plastics for use in some areas including the centre console. Ford is an established brand name, and we expect the sturdy cabin construction and proven mechanicals to remain reliable.

Performance

Only one engine is available: an in-line four-cylinder, 16-valve 2.0-litre producing 143 bhp and 185 Nm. Paired to a four-speed automatic transmission with Sequential Sports Shift, the 2.0-litre puts in a refined and keen on-road performance, reaching 100 km/h from rest in 10.7 seconds.

Roominess

The 2011 Ford Focus Sedan comes with good head- and leg-room for front and rear occupants. The boot is well-shaped and large, offering more loading space than in the Ford Focus Hatchback.

Running Costs

Running costs are reasonable, thanks to the 12.5 km/litre fuel economy, affordable servicing costs, and respectable depreciation. That said, Japanese sedan rivals, such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Altis, hold on to their value even better.

Value for Money

Compared to highly popular Japanese sedans such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Altis, the 2011 Ford Focus Sedan emerges as the best handling, and actually has pricing advantage on its side. The only reason why the Ford Focus (sedan or hatchback) is not selling anywhere near as well as the Japanese boils down to perception and branding—Malaysians' unwavering confidence in the Honda and Toyota brand, that is.

Equipment

The 2011 Ford Focus Sedan comes with standard items including 16-inch alloy wheels, leather steering wheel with audio controls, rear parking sensors, power door locks, power side mirrors, power windows with one touch up/down and anti-jam function, dual-zone climate control with rear air vents, 2-DIN audio system with radio, MP3 functionality, in-dash 6-disc CD changer and an auxiliary audio jack. Safety equipments include dual front airbags and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Environment

Carbon dioxide emissions of 189 grams/km and fuel consumption of 12.5 km/litre are average by class standards. Japanese rivals are more efficient and less polluting to run. Ford can lower emissions and improve fuel economy by offering one more gear ratio, like in the Honda Civic.

Live Life Drive Verdict

Best handling in the class
Ride and refinement
Attractive pricing
Hard dashboard plastics
Japanese rivals are cheaper to run
Ford brand not that strong

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